McLaren experiences a three-pointed-star throwback

Turning back the clock…

Ian joined Formula One in 1997, the same year in which the very first examples of the Mercedes-Benz Actros range set unseen standards on UK roads for their efficiency and innovation.

Mercedes-Benz High-Performance Engines was McLaren’s works partner at the time, and restorer Dominic’s 6x2 Actros 2557 MegaSpace was just one of the three identical trucks used to support the team’s pursuit of more Grand Prix victories.

Fast forward a quarter of a century later, and Ian is once again driving a Mercedes-Benz truck. However, this time, the three-pointed-star adorns the front of a strikingly finished 4x2 truck from the fifth-generation Actros range, one of a dozen supplied by Mercedes-Benz Truck Dealer, Sparshatt Truck & Van.

Truck technology, a quarter of a century later.

It's easy to imagine that when restorer Dominic made a VIP visit in his restored Actros to the impressive McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, Ian and his colleagues leapt at the opportunity to compare and contrast the two trucks to remind themselves how much the technology has moved on.

The first-generation truck’s 425 kW (570 hp) V8 engine and visually striking multi-coloured upholstery are certainly telling of its time, especially when compared to the interior of Ian’s new Actros, which boasts an aluminium appearance, chrome StyleLine trim, and leather upholstery - a masterclass in understated comfort and quality.

Ian’s new 1853 GigaSpace Actros showcases an impressive list of advanced Mercedes-Benz technology, including its upgraded, interactive version of the radical, twin-screen Multimedia Cockpit dashboard. Safety technology is just as advanced, as the truck includes an incredible standard-fit Active Brake Assist 5 system, with market-leading pedestrian-recognition capabilities, Lane Keeping Assist and Proximity Control Assist driver aids, as well as an optional, secondary water retarder.

- Ian Hodges.

Not his first rodeo...

This isn’t the first time Dominic’s hard work has made RoadStars headlines.

Dominic had already won awards for his restoration of a Mercedes-Benz 1622 tractor unit from 1976 and was eager to take on another project. He explained: “There are hardly any first-generation Actros left and as this one is so unique, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to give it a new lease of life,” he said.

Dominic laboured for nine months in his spare time to bring the trailblazer back to its former glory.

He continued: “We were pleasantly surprised to discover that not only was the Actros a top-of-the-range model, with features like electric seats, but it also had all the books and, considering its age, was in great condition.”

Ian was astounded by the restoration, he enthused, “I’d forgotten the lurid colour scheme on the seats! Dominic’s Actros looks every bit as good now as it did the day we took delivery. He’s done a marvellous job and it’s a great testament to his attention to detail and workmanship.”

Are you restoring a classic Mercedes-Benz truck? Or are you renovating a newer model?

Share the details along with photos of your exciting project below – you never know, it may feature in a future RoadStars article!