Return to Glory!

[Robert Ackerson’s] lavishly produced masterpiece … Outstanding Classic & Sports Car (UK) Through dramatic photographs and equally stirring text, one of the greatest years of sports car racing is brought to life Mercedes Owner A tale worthy of a tome … Ackerson tackles the genesis of the 300 SL and its single season in the spotlight using familiar driver autobiographies, contemporary magazine reports and, pictorially, Daimler Media’s extensive archive. Motor Sport The story hooks you from the start. Clasicos Exclusivos

Robert Ackerson’s first encounter with a Mercedes-Benz took place in 1952, with a Mercedes SSK. This left a lasting impression upon him and sparked his interest in Mercedes-Benz automobiles, an interest that deepened when the 300 SL made its sensational debut in sports car competition that same year. Robert’s knowledge of that year’s triumphs – including victories for the 300 SL at Le Mans and in the grueling Carrera Panamericana – was accompanied by a deep admiration and respect for the men who drove in those races, including Karl Kling, Hermann Lang, John Fitch, and Rudi Caracciola.

Robert has written numerous books and articles about many of the world’s greatest high-performance cars, including the 300 SLR competition cars and the W 196 R Grand Prix racer. He has received recognition for the quality of his writings from the Society of Automotive Historians and the Antique Car Club of America.