A California workshop has achieved a technical feat by transforming a Tesla Model 3 into an electric replica of the legendary Mercedes 300 SL. This unique project has generated both admiration and controversy among car enthusiasts, illustrating the delicate balance between heritage preservation and technological innovation.
A spectacular transformation that leaves no one indifferent
California-based garage S-Klub LA has taken on an extraordinary technical and aesthetic challenge: giving the appearance of a 1950s Mercedes 300 SL to an ultra-modern Tesla Model 3. This daring achievement quickly set social media ablaze, dividing enthusiasts between fascination and skepticism.
This isn't the garage's first foray into the world of radical transformations. They previously made headlines by integrating a Tesla powertrain into a Ferrari Testarossa body, a project that was just as controversial as this one.
A faithful homage on the outside, resolutely modern on the inside
The exterior of the vehicle pays careful homage to the original Mercedes 300 SL. The iconic gullwing doors, the visual signature of the model, have been faithfully reproduced. The characteristic radiator grille and the round headlights typical of the period have been carefully recreated, using fibreglass to imitate the original shapes as closely as possible.
Jean-Pierre Durand, an expert in classic vehicle restoration, comments: “The aesthetic fidelity is remarkable. They have managed to capture the essence of the 300 SL, particularly with its fluid and aerodynamic lines that made it famous.”
Inside, however, it's the 21st century that takes over. The cabin remains very close to that of a standard Tesla Model 3, retaining the imposing central screen, the modern steering wheel and the digital controls. A few retro touches have been added to create an ambiance more in line with the exterior, such as light blue ambient lighting and inserts reminiscent of the style of the 50s.
A technical feat under the hood
While the exterior evokes nostalgia, under the hood, it is resolutely the future that is expressed. The beating heart of this vehicle remains the electric powertrain of the Tesla Model 3, delivering performance worthy of the 21st century.
Marie Lecomte, electric motor engineer, explains: โThis project perfectly illustrates the flexibility of modern electric platforms. Adapting such a powertrain to a classic body opens up fascinating perspectives for the preservation of automotive heritage.โ
As a reminder, the original Mercedes 300 SL, produced between 1954 and 1963, was itself at the cutting edge of technology for its time. With its 3-litre engine developing 215 hp (and up to 240 hp in its later versions), it was one of the fastest vehicles of its time, earning it the sinister nickname of the โWidowmakerโ due to the fatal accidents it caused.
A project that raises ethical questions
This transformation nevertheless raises questions within the community of collectors and purists.
Pierre Deschamps, president of a vintage car club, expressed his reservations: “Although technically impressive, this type of project blurs the boundaries between restoration and creation. We must be careful not to distort automotive heritage in the name of innovation.”
The creators of the project defend themselves by emphasizing that no real 300 SL was modified for this achievement. Their goal was to pay homage to a classic while exploring the possibilities offered by modern technologies.
A bridge between two eras
This Tesla Model 3 transformed into a Mercedes 300 SL represents more than just an aesthetic modification. It embodies a reflection on the evolution of the automobile and the way in which modern technologies can dialogue with heritage.
Automotive historian Sophie Renard concludes: โThis project, beyond its spectacular aspect, invites us to reflect on how we can preserve the spirit of classics while embracing technological advances. It is a fascinating balancing act between nostalgia and futurism.โ
Whether one admires or criticizes this achievement, it leaves no one indifferent. It opens the way to new reflections on the place of classic vehicles in a world in full energy transition, while demonstrating the incredible creativity of automobile enthusiasts.