In 1886, Carl Benz changed the course of the world with the invention of the modern automobile – the Benz Patent Motorwagen. Only two years later, Gottlieb Daimler arrived in the U.S. and partnered with piano manufacturer William Steinway to found the Daimler Motor Company with its headquarters in Long Island City, New York. This move paved the way for German automotive engineering excellence to come to American soil. Local assembly of the “American Mercedes” began in 1905. This early visionary power and engineering excellence established the foundation of the enduring local footprint of Mercedes-Benz. During this time there were numerous motorsport successes, such as a land-speed record set by Barney Oldfield’s “Blitzen Benz” at Daytona Beach that created the high-end demand for Mercedes cars by the Hollywood elite and other wealthy Americans. This eventually led to their consistent importation by the famous Max Hoffman, who also advocated for the creation of the 300 SL Gullwing – unveiled at the 1954 International Motor Sports Show in New York City.
The 1905 American Mercedes was a licensed copy of German Mercedes models produced by the Daimler Manufacturing Company in Long Island City, New York, between 1904 and 1907. Introduced at the 1905 New York Automobile Show to circumvent high import tariffs, this car was aimed at the luxury market.
Details of the 1905 American Mercedes:
- Built by Daimler Manufacturing Co. in a former Steinway & Sons piano factory.
- These were licensed, American-made versions of German models.
- Often featured a 40 HP engine, with luxurious detachable tonneau bodies.
- It featured high ground clearance for American roads.
- Aimed at wealthy clients, priced $7,500.
- Production ceased after a fire destroyed the factory in 1907.
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