Watch This Classic Mercedes Wagon Shatter Speed Records with a Mind-Blowing 200 MPH Run
Old Mercedes wagons like the one featured are iconic for a slew of reasons. They're good-looking, reliable, and practical. But they're not exactly known for straight-line speed, particularly with factory-installed underpowered (but incredibly durable) diesel engines. However, this exemplar bids goodbye to its original diesel heart, swapping in an evolution that’s nothing short of extraordinary.
The audacious project carried out by Finland's Valtonen Motorsport involved transforming this W123-generation Mercedes 300TD into a speed demon. According to Engine Swap Depot, they replaced its 3.0-liter diesel inline-five with a turbocharged 4.0-liter Ford Barra straight-six. Further enhancing this beauty's speed capabilities, Valtonen also paired the new engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The tuner shop went a step further and created an enticing teaser video on YouTube. Viewers can behold the car’s adrenaline-pumping dyno pull, complete with astonishing visuals of flames gushing out from the exhaust. The video, albeit cryptic about horsepower figures, leaves no room for doubt about the immense power the car wields.
As the clip transitions from the dyno to a full-throttle runway race, the Mercedes gallops down Halli airport’s tarmac in southern Finland. While we don't get a driver's-eye-view, the vehicle’s speed is palpable as it zooms past the camera. Despite experiencing some instability towards the end of the runway, the inclusion of a parachute—a rare sight for any station wagon—helps bring the beast to a controlled stop in the braking zone. Its dramatic performance defies the conventional image of a station wagon and cements this build as a marvel of automotive engineering.
The Heart of the Beast: Ford Barra Straight-Six
One of the most remarkable aspects of this build is undoubtedly the engine. The Ford Barra straight-six is renowned for its performance capabilities and is often a favorite among tuners and speed enthusiasts. With the turbocharged 4.0-liter variant, Valtonen Motorsport harnesses a powerhouse that not only adds remarkable speed but offers near-limitless tuning potential. The integration of this engine into the classic Mercedes chassis is a feat of mechanical artistry.
Dyno Thrills and Real-World Speed
The initial dyno video sets the tone for what is to follow. Engine roar, fire-spitting exhausts, and blurred horsepower numbers come together in a symphony of speed. Seeing the Mercedes transition from a stationary dyno pull to roaring down an airstrip is a surreal experience. While horsepower figures remain hidden, one can only speculate that the power output is extraordinary, given the car’s performance in the standing mile.
A Unique Blend of Heritage and Performance
This Mercedes wagon stands as a testament to automotive ingenuity, where old-school charm meets modern performance. It challenges preconceived notions about what a station wagon can be, embodying a unique blend of heritage and unprecedented speed. Valtonen Motorsport’s daring project does more than just break speed records; it reshapes the way we perceive classic cars and their potential.
Ultimately, this build encapsulates the passion and creativity of its creators. It's not merely a car; it's a statement that defies automotive norms and reimagines the possibilities within the realm of speed and performance. For enthusiasts and casual observers alike, witnessing this Mercedes wagon tear down a runway at 200 mph is nothing short of captivating.