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Mercedes Land Speed record challenger wows the crowds

Festival of Speed | Press Article 16/04/24

Mercedes Land Speed Record challenger wows the crowds

For immediate release:  Sunday 15 July 2018

There are many wild and equally unique vehicles at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed, but none can match the Mercedes-Benz T80 for jaw-slackening drama. This incredible machine was designed in the late 1930s by Ferdinand Porsche, and powered by a 44.5-litre, 3000bhp V12 engine, more commonly found in the front of a Messerschmidt Bf109 fighter ’plane.

Built with claiming the Land Speed Record in mind, this six-wheeled monster was theoretically capable of reaching 470mph, and Hans Stuck was tasked with driving it on a stretch of the Reichsautobahn Berlin. The record bid was intended to take place in 1940, but the outbreak of World War 2 ensured this remarkable machine became a museum exhibit instead.

(ENDS)

EDITORS’ NOTES:

Staged every summer since 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by MasterCard is the world’s largest automotive garden party; set against the spectacular backdrop of Goodwood House in West Sussex, UK. Over 600 cars and motorcycles spanning the phenomenal history of motoring and motor sport take part with some of the most legendary figures from the sport as well as international celebrities regularly attending. Highlights will include the FoS Future Lab, Forest Rally Stage, Michelin Supercar Paddock, Michelin Supercar Run, F1 paddock, Drivers’ Club, GAS Arena, Cartier Style et Luxe Concours d’Elegance, Aviation Exhibition and Bonhams Auction.

For all Media enquiries, please contact Laura Gilbert-Burke, Tom Lynch or Abbie Hansford at the Goodwood Motor Sport Press Office:

Telephone: +44 (0)1243 755000

E-mail: laura.gilbert-burke@goodwood.com or Tom.Lynch@goodwood.com or abbie.hansford@goodwood.com

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