Tuesday, 5 March 2019

05/03/19 - O'Flahertys Classic Mercedes Collection - 1911 Benz 8/18


There's an exciting prospect for classic and vintage car lovers in Ireland this year with the news that the O'Flaherty Classic Mercedes Collection will go on display over the course of the year at the premises of MSL Ballsbridge. 
The first car to go on display is a stunning 1911 Benz 8/18, which was fitted with a 1950cc 4 cylinder engine that produced 18bhp at 1800 rpm. Maybe it's a good thing that it wasn't so powerful, because it was only fitted with brakes to the rear wheels and they were applied by a leather belt being pressed against the transmission.
This car has been owned by some of Ireland's best known automotive collectors down through the years and is believed to be the only one in existence now. It was owned by the late Phil Monahan from 1988 to 1993 before he sold it to a UK collector who undertook an extensive and sympathetic restoration. It was bought at auction in the UK by Denis Dowdall on behalf of MDL in 2001.

































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