Hasta La Ideas

The Mercedes-Benz W165 holds a legendary status among vintage racing enthusiasts, a machine that represented the peak of German engineering in the 1930s. Built for speed and streamlined for aerodynamic excellence, the W165 was crafted to dominate the European racing circuit, delivering a blend of power and elegance that captivated audiences. Its heritage is one of high performance under sleek, unassuming curves, a symbol of sophistication in a fiercely competitive era. To see it reimagined in a modern restomod is to witness the rekindling of that legacy with a bold, innovative edge.

Revived by Dutch designer Ferry Passchier, this fan-made restomod takes the W165’s iconic silhouette and infuses it with elements that bring it firmly into the 21st century. It’s a tribute to the original’s racing pedigree, yet it doesn’t shy away from introducing contemporary enhancements that push boundaries. With its exposed engine, fluorescent green accents, and subtle yet significant modifications, this version of the W165 embraces the best of both worlds—respecting its origins while pushing into new territory.

Designer: Ferry Passchier

One of the most striking features is the exposed engine, showcased prominently atop the hood. In the original W165, the engine was neatly housed beneath its aerodynamic curves, emphasizing sophistication over showmanship. Here, however, the engine is a statement piece, signaling power and aggression. It’s an unapologetically modern touch that heightens the car’s presence, balancing its vintage allure with a raw, modern edge that commands attention.

Subtle yet vibrant green accents trace through the design—on the wheels, exhaust tips, and cockpit detailing. This choice adds a contemporary flair that contrasts sharply with the metallic body, highlighting the vehicle’s dual nature as both a nostalgic homage and a futuristic reimagining. The green accents serve as visual punctuation, refreshing the car’s appearance without overshadowing its classic form. They’re a smart choice that complements the car’s heritage, while giving it a fresh, unmistakably modern attitude.

The body retains the iconic streamlined, bullet-like shape of the W165, capturing the aerodynamic efficiency that defined the original. Yet, there are carefully considered updates, such as additional vents around the engine bay, which assist with cooling—an adaptation to handle the increased power of this restomod’s enhanced engine. These modifications seamlessly blend functionality with style, maintaining the car’s classic profile while integrating essential modern engineering.

Inside the cockpit, there’s a fascinating blend of old and new. The seat and steering wheel are updated with modern materials, offering comfort that drivers from the 1930s would envy. It’s still a minimalist cockpit, in line with the original W165’s stripped-down approach—back then, racing cars were bare-bones machines built for speed, not comfort. But here, the upgrades strike a balance between authenticity and usability, allowing a modern driver to experience the thrill of a vintage racecar without sacrificing too much comfort.

The front wheels feature a multi-spoke design that mirrors the classic aesthetic, while the rear wheels sport solid green hubcaps. This mix of designs is both a visual and functional choice—the solid rear wheels likely reduce drag, enhancing performance in a way that honors the car’s racing heritage. It’s an inventive touch that respects the original’s focus on speed while pushing its design into a new, visually engaging direction.

At the rear, dual exhaust pipes sit low and wide, lending the car a mean, track-ready vibe. The original W165 didn’t need this kind of dramatic exhaust configuration—it was all about clean, compact engineering. But today, this restomod isn’t shy about flaunting its capabilities, with those pipes signaling power in a way that’s unmistakable. It’s a design choice that adds attitude and gives you a hint of the performance under the hood.

This restomod of the W165 transcends typical restoration. It respects the car’s racing pedigree, capturing the essence of the original design while introducing bold upgrades that make it feel both nostalgic and new. It’s a meticulously crafted homage that appeals to both vintage car enthusiasts and modern performance aficionados, offering a fresh take on an iconic vehicle.

The post Mercedes-Benz W165 Gets a Futuristic Restomod Makeover That Defies Convention first appeared on Yanko Design.