1929 Mercedes Benz Gazelle Replica

Although it's titled as a Mercedes-Benz, this neat little Gazelle is a bit more affordable and probably every bit as much fun to drive. Famously constructed from kits, they were a pretty successful way for the enterprising hobbyist to give himself something to do on weekends and end up with one of the better-proportioned replicas of the period. And it's still a blast to drive!

Based on humble GM mechanicals, the Gazelle is the antidote to the more familiar inexpensive British and Italian sports cars of the period. It offers neo-classic styling that most folks will at least admire as it drives by, even if they don't know quite what it is, and with rear-wheel-drive and a featherweight curb weight, it's entertaining on the road. This one was built in the late 1980s and shows quite well, as it's only been driven about a consigner stated 4,174 miles.

Exterior
For a fiberglass kit car, fit and finish are remarkably good, with even door gaps, a snug-fitting trunk lid, and glossy paint that is familiar to anyone who has driven, built, or even seen another Gazelle. This one is highlighted by a 2 tone cream and brown paint job which highlight the long hood and sweeping fenders. Other details like the chrome grille, rubber running boards, and chromed wire wheels, are all part of the vintage illusion and everything remains in very good condition, so you know the car was loved and treated right.

Interior
The seats are pure 1980s cool, one-piece buckskin leather buckets that look futuristic, even in the vintage-looking Gazelle bodywork. There's a matching rear seat that's probably best reserved for children or your briefcase, and a luxurious wood-rimmed wheel gives it an appropriate upscale feel. With very little wear and tear, everything is in good order. The custom-made wooden dashboard carries white-faced gauges that proudly spell out that they are "Vintage Reproduction" and there's an AM/FM/Cassette stereo over there on the passenger's side. Weather protection consists of very 1929-esque folding cloth top and side curtains, but they actually give the car a very trim appearance and seal up better than a lot of cars of the target era. There's a narrow trunk out back, big enough for a few tools and supplies, and it, too, is nicely upholstered with matching tan carpets.

Drivetrain
A GM 1.6 Liter 4-cylinder backed by a 3-speed automatic, both from an exact unknown donor.

Undercarriage
Up on our lift we see black fiberglass tubs and fender wells, a rust-free frame (from a Chevrolet Chevette GM based frame). Front disc brakes, and rear drum brakes are noted. Independent coil springs for front and coil springs for the rear suspension are on.

Drive-Ability
A quick starter and good driver, smooth acceleration, bias free braking, and easy steering with good handling.

Overall a fun classic and sure to be head turner. Not everyone has even seen one of these, based off the 1929 classic that is out of nearly everyone save for the very well-heeled to afford and original. Here we have a light fiberglass replica with all the trimmings, a late model GM engine and drivetrain with framing courtesy the same. Save all the fuss and just have fun.

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.