Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Mercedes 500SE That Was Gifted To Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela, the last living icon from the pre colonial era, turned 95 on July 18th. Did you know that the legendary revolutionary, also considered the father of the nation within South Africa has a strong relation with the German auto giant Mercedes Benz.
Nelson Mandela owned a Mercedes S Class, an 500SE saloon in particular. To be exact, the luxury sedan was gifted to Mandela by the manufacturer upon his release from prison. The car, like its owner, became a part of history ever since. Here is the story.
Release
Nelson Mandela was released from Victor Verster prison or Drakenstein Correctional Centre in early 1990. Understandably, It was a very important occasion in the country and some decided to gift him something special.
The gift
The workers of Mercedes Benz South Africa saw it fit to gift Mandela a top of the line Mercedes S Class. A red 500SE W126 model. The Mercedes workers were under the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa and the union heads put across their request to Mercedes Benz.
The red S500
Mercedes Benz, one of the few companies, known for its liberal views and the first automaker to formally recognize black labour organizations, was quick to provide its approval. The company donated car parts and the workers put in extra hours of work and completed building the special car in four days time. The car was then presented to Mandela on July 22nd by company worker Philip Groom at the Sisa Dukashe stadium in Mdantsane.
Part of history
Mandela's Mercedes, is also referred to as Madiba's Merc (Madiba being his clan name). The special Merc features an inscribed South African flag and Mandela's name. The licence plate reads "999 NRM GP", with NRM standing for Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. The car can be seen on display at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg.
Continue with Google