16.09.2025From the "red pig" to the myth: Three AMG-icons from the early days of the tuning manufacturer

Whenever you hear the term "Red Pig" in motorsport, you inevitably think of AMG's wild early years. In the early 1970s, the small, independent tuning company from Großaspach caused a stir on European racetracks with modified Mercedes sedans – thus laying the foundation for one of the most impressive success stories in the automotive world. Three of these legendary vehicles are now available as precise model in scale 1:18 replicated by WERK83 and are sure to make collectors' hearts beat faster.

One model in this series is the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG with starting number 56, which was used in the 1972 Nuremberg 200 Miles at the Norisring. At the wheel: Hans Heyer, one of the most famous touring car drivers of his time. The car was not only a driving sensation, but also a symbol of AMG's unconventional approach: A heavy luxury sedan as a racing car? What sounds crazy today was a bold stroke of genius back then and became a legend.

The car with starting number 35, driven by Helmut Kelleners at the Südwestpokal in Hockenheim, also dates back to 1971. The model commemorates another impressive appearance of the red colossus. With its beefy body, rich V8 sound, and revolutionary technology for the time, the AMG 300 SEL was a real eye-catcher on the track.

Completing the trio is the Mercedes-Benz AMG 300 SEL with starting number 11, used in the legendary 1971 24-hour race at Paul Ricard. The car was driven by Hans Heyer and Clemens Schickentanz. This long-distance version underscored that AMG not only stood for sprinting capabilities, but also excelled in endurance. The model replica brings this spirit to a 1:18 scale – with meticulous attention to detail and authentic racing equipment.

All three WERK83 models have been recreated with high quality: from the massive grille and the signature chrome bumpers to the richly detailed interior. The paintwork, starting numbers, rims, and racing bodies are all faithful replicas of the historic models. The 300 SEL's massive bodywork is particularly well-executed in scale 1:18 – a true highlight in any collection.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG #56 200 Miles Nuremberg 1972 H., RRP €79.95, item-no.: W18030005

Mercedes-Benz AMG 300 SEL #35 Hockenheim 1971 Kelleners 1:18, RRP €79.95, item-no.: W18030006

Mercedes-Benz AMG 300 SEL #11 24h Paul Ricard 1971 Heyer, Schickentanz, RRP €79.95, item-no.: W18030009

productos

	Mercedes-Benz AMG 300 SEL #11 24h Paul Ricard 1971 Heyer, Schickentanz 1:18 WERK83	71,96 €
	Mercedes-Benz AMG 300 SEL #35 Hockenheim 1971 Kelleners 1:18 WERK83	71,96 €
	Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG #56 200 millas Núremberg 1972 H. Heyer 1:18 WERK83	71,96 €