The special Youngtimer exhibition at the Mercedes-Benz Museum turns back the clock by approximately twenty years, presenting ten vehicles in a vibrant, colorful setting that reflects the everyday culture and lifestyle of the 1990s and 2000s. These models will be on view from 11 April through 2 November 2025.
Icons of the 1990s and 2000s
The youngtimers in Room Collection 5 illustrate the spirit of their era through carefully designed thematic islands. “Easy Life” celebrates the 1990s with the SLK (R170) and CLK Cabriolet (A208), two icons born from the brand’s product momentum of that decade. “Supersonic” features the 190 E 2.5 EVO II (W201), E 500 Limited (W124), and SLR McLaren Roadster (R199), representing the harmony between top performance and innovation. The E 60 AMG (W210) forms the centerpiece of “Subculture,” a space highlighting creative individuality. “Refinement” is brought to life through the luxury and sporty elegance of the CL 600 (C215) and CLS 350 CGI (C219). “Space” offers a visionary outlook on technology and design, represented by the SL 500 (R129) and Vision R 320 CDI (V251).
Five more highlights in glass showcases
An additional selection of five youngtimers is displayed in the large glass cubes in the museum’s parking structure, on view until at least mid-October 2025. These include the A 160 ‘Häkkinen’ (W168), CL 500 (C140), ML 500 (W163), Vision CLK 320 CDI (C209), and C 55 AMG (W203), each presented as if a scale model inside an oversized display box. Another model, the concept car A-Class HyPer (W168), is featured through mid-June 2025 on the “Classic” island near the escalator between levels 0 and 1.
Design stories behind the metal
Each of these youngtimers has a unique backstory. The CL 600 on display, for instance, is the very model shown at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show during the debut of the C215 series and features unique equipment specifications. Concept cars such as the A-Class HyPer, Vision R 320 CDI, Vision CLK 320 CDI Cabriolet, and CLS 350 CGI showcase important drivetrain innovations of their era. The A 160 ‘Häkkinen’ is one of only 125 units built, distinguished by the race driver’s name along the flanks and his signature on both the hood and the steering wheel.
Engaging nostalgia through interactive features
The exhibition also includes a variety of interactive, AI-supported experiences. Visitors can take part in a 1990s-style arcade racing game or produce a short music video clip. A face-swap tool allows users to integrate their face into archival images, while the “Refinement” station invites them to take a photo alongside one of the youngtimers.
