Over the past twelve months, market analysts have calculated that the Mercedes-Benz Classic Index (MBCI) grew by about 8.7% . The MBCI has been published since 2012 by the HAGI institute based in London, UK.
The Mercedes-Benz Classic Index describes the market performance by controlling the results of the purchase and sale operations of the brand's classic models. According to the latest report by Historic Automobile Group International (HAGI), market prices for classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles continued to show growth.
Mercedes-Benz classics much sought after by collectors
With a considerable increase of more than 8.7% over the last twelve months, the average growth long-term quotation of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles is too 8.8%.However, for this to happen, the perfect condition of vehicles is a fundamental requirement. , which given the age of the vehicles is only possible after costly and exhaustive restorations. Great importance is even attached to checking all the work carried out, together with documentation of the vehicle's previous condition.
There is still a bonus special assigned to the restoration actions that use original parts , in accordance with Mercedes-Benz procedures, such as at the Classic Centers in Fellbach near Stuttgart, in Sintra and in Irvine, California.
A classic vehicle in like-new condition, restored to original manufacturer specifications, will have an extremely high market value.
After reaching a new high of 206.5 points in September 2017, since the beginning of the year MBCI has registered the highest growth measured by HAGI among all brands (+7.6%). Extrapolated to twelve months, the MBCI rise reveals the aforementioned climb of 8.7%.
Price growth for four classic Mercedes-Benz models
In October the models 107 series SLC and the SEC 126 series models had a positive influence. According to HAGI's market analysis, a 500 SLC model was sold for more than 110 thousand euros in the private market.
In September, two classic Mercedes-Benz models were traded at high prices: the 190 SL (W121) is currently trading at a price around the 200 thousand euros . The roadster, built between 1955 and 1963, is one of today's most popular classic vehicles and has seen its value double in the last ten years.
Also the units in good condition of conservation of the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Convertible (W111) registered a price increase, and reached the 400 thousand euros , and even more according to your state. The luxurious four-seater cabriolet, manufactured between 1969 and 1971, is another favorite with collectors.
HAGI indices set as international benchmarks
The HAGI indices were released in January 2009 and cover various car brands. They were established as international references in the classic vehicle market. The Mercedes-Benz Classic Index (MBCI) was launched in 2012 with an initial market quotation of 100 GBP (about 100 euros) on 31 December 2011. In October 2017 it was worth over 200 points. MBCI is currently registering growth in the price of 44 classic vehicles of the brand, 23 of which are considered by HAGI as the most important vehicles in the history of the automobile.The Mercedes-Benz Museum
We recently had the opportunity to visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum, located in Stuttgart , Germany, and which opened its doors on May 19, 2006, more than 10 years ago.
Construction took about two and a half years, but it is the only Museum in the world capable of showing 125 years of automotive industry history.
The Museum, with a covered area of 4800 m2 and a height of 47.5 meters, occupies a space of 210 000 m3. In it are found about 160 vehicles and 1500 objects exhibited, presented to visitors on two interconnected routes, covering nine floors with a total of 16 500 m2.
Along the first route, there are seven areas designated as "Legend Areas", which report the brand's history in chronological order, highlighting the biggest icons of the brand, such as the Mercedes 300 SL , the “gull wings”.
But the Museum does not live only from classic Mercedes-Benz cars. The “Collection” areas present the huge variety of Mercedes-Benz vehicles according to the respective theme.
In addition to these, a more recent area dedicated to AMG is also worth a visit.
See here for more information about the Mercedes-Benz Museum.