George Russell arrived at Silverstone today in a remarkable Mercedes C111, showcasing a rare piece of automotive history just days before the British Grand Prix. Although he used the high-tech AMG ONE for Thursday’s media sessions, it was the striking retro supercar with its bright orange gullwing doors that captured widespread attention.
This iconic vehicle, one of only 17 prototypes ever produced, represents a significant chapter in Mercedes’ innovative past. Introduced at the 1969 Frankfurt Motor Show, the C111 served as a cutting-edge testbed where Mercedes developed technologies such as multi-link rear suspension and experimented with Wankel engines.
The Legacy and Unique Engineering Behind the C111
The C111’s uniqueness extends beyond its limited production. The particular example Russell arrived in is powered by a rare 4-rotor engine, while another diesel variant of the model famously reached speeds up to 210 mph at the Nardo Ring in 1978. Though never intended for mass production, innovations trialed in the C111 influenced many future Mercedes road cars, making it a priceless exhibit of technological progress.
Adding to the significance of today’s appearance, Mercedes is also unveiling the CONCEPT AMG GT XX during the Grand Prix weekend. This futuristic concept car shares the Sunset Beam Orange color of the C111 and features accents on its W16 engine, symbolizing a bridge between Mercedes’ past and potential future performance vehicles.
Insight from Mercedes Leadership on Advanced Engineering Collaboration
Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer for Mercedes-Benz Group AG, highlighted the collective knowledge driving the CONCEPT AMG GT XX’s creation:
“The best minds in our global R&D network have contributed their extensive expertise – from Mercedes-Benz in Sindelfingen and Untertürkheim to Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach and YASA in the UK to our Formula 1 drivetrain experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth,” —Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development and Procurement
He further added,
“Together, they have developed the CONCEPT AMG GT XX and are providing an insight into pioneering drivetrain technology and the future of performance.”
Historical Cars on Display and Russell’s Pressure at His Home Race
The classic C111 shares the Silverstone paddock with other historic Mercedes cars, including the legendary W196 driven by Stirling Moss to victory in the 1955 British Grand Prix. This display underscores Mercedes’ rich motorsport heritage as Russell prepares for a critical weekend.
Amid speculation surrounding his future with the team, Russell remains focused and committed. With Mercedes’ Toto Wolff reportedly in discussions with reigning champion Max Verstappen, the spotlight is firmly on Russell to deliver strong results on home soil.
“I’ve been focused on my side, I am loyal to Mercedes,” —George Russell, Mercedes Driver
He continued,
“So at the end of the day, everything will work itself out.”
“And the likelihood I’m not at Mercedes next year, I think is exceptionally low.”
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Russell and Mercedes
The showcase of the priceless Mercedes C111 and the debut of the CONCEPT AMG GT XX reflect Mercedes’ deep roots and future ambitions in high-performance engineering. For George Russell, the weekend at Silverstone offers both a chance to celebrate heritage and demonstrate his ongoing value to the team under growing pressure.
As the British Grand Prix unfolds, the connection between past innovation and future potential, embodied by these remarkable vehicles and Mercedes’ continued investment in technology, will be a key storyline to watch.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened between George Russell and Max Verstappen?
A. Near the end of the Barcelona race, Verstappen aggressively collided with the side of Russell’s car. This action put him close to receiving a one-race ban.