M-Class, A-Class and CLK Coupé: New candidates for the H number plate in 2027

• The SUV success story began in 1997 with the M-Class, model series 163
• A-Class, model series 168, with innovative sandwich body concept
• The CLK Coupé, model series 208, furthered the brand’s coupé tradition

In 2027, the first Mercedes-Benz M-Class, A-Class and CLK Coupé vehicles will be eligible for H number plates in Germany. In order to qualify for registration as a historic vehicle, a car must be at least 30 years old and successfully pass an inspection in accordance with Section 23 of the German Road Traffic Licencing Code (StVZO). 

For the maintenance and repair of the brand’s modern classics and classics, Mercedes-Benz Classic is responsible for approximately 160,000 different Genuine Parts. These parts play an important role in the long-term preservation of classic vehicles. The focus of the offering is on components which are relevant to vehicle operation and safety. Many parts are available within 24 hours from some 3,000 authorised Mercedes-Benz dealers in 170 countries. The Mercedes-Benz Classic Centre in Fellbach also offers advice and parts sales. 

Link to the parts search: partsserach.mercedes-benz-classic.com

1997: Mercedes-Benz expands its model range

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class, model series 163, which was presented in 1997, provided critical impetus in the sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment, which was just emerging then. In April 1997, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the M-Class at the new plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA, which had been built specifically for the production of this class. With independent suspension front and rear as well as permanent all-wheel drive, the off-roader combined on-road comfort with off-road capability. Replacement parts available for model series 163 include the Mercedes star (A 163 888 00 86, EUR 119.52) and the front wings (left: A 163 880 01 06, right: A 163 880 02 06, EUR 566.34 each) as well as the transfer case (A 163 280 08 00, EUR 5,651.57), automatic transmission (A 163 270 23 00 80, EUR 7,120.34) and the V8 engine of the ML 500 introduced in 2001 (A 113 010 83 02 80, EUR 24,831.10). 

The A-Class, model series 168, represented a fundamentally new vehicle concept. It was presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1997. Initially, the A 140 and A 160 were available, with further engine variants following. The sandwich concept is a defining feature of the body structure: in case of a frontal collision, the powertrain is able to slide underneath the passenger compartment, thus reducing the risk of injury to the vehicle occupants. The A-Class became the world’s first series production car to come equipped with the pioneering electronic stability programme ESP® as standard. Mercedes-Benz Classic offers replacement parts for the first A-Class, ranging from the bonnet lock release cable (A 168 880 00 59 64, EUR 42.63) and auxiliary brake light (A 168 820 00 56, EUR 128.53) all the way to the complete automatic transmission (A 168 370 45 00 88, EUR 7,000.21). 

The Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupé, model series 208, made its debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January 1997. It continues in the tradition of E-Class Coupés, but was developed as an independent model series on the technical basis of the C-Class, model series 202. The range of engine variants extended from the CLK 200 through the CLK 320 all the way to the CLK 430. In 1998, one year after the coupé, the CLK Cabriolet was presented. Replacement parts available include, for example, the instrument cluster (A 208 540 39 11 80, EUR 817.74) and boot lid (A 208 750 01 75 28, EUR 994.36). 

Expertise in servicing, repairs and restoration

The Mercedes-Benz Classic Centre in Fellbach supports the brand’s classic cars – regardless of whether they have H number plates or not. In 2026, Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH expanded its site to a total area of approximately 18,000 square metres. The offering is complemented by the international Mercedes-Benz Classic Partner network, which specialises in servicing and the supply of replacement parts for modern classics and classics. 

Further research and multimedia material:
mercedes-benz-archive.com/marsmuseum

Mercedes-Benz Classic on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/mercedesbenzmuseum
https://www.facebook.com/mercedesbenzmuseum

Mercedes-Benz anniversary year “140 years of innovation”

Since Carl Benz filed the patent for the first automobile 140 years ago and Gottlieb Daimler built his motorised carriage shortly afterwards, Mercedes-Benz has dedicated itself to constant innovation and to creating the world’s most desirable cars for its customers. This ambition has driven every innovation – from the world’s first automobile in 1886 to the biggest product launch programme in the company’s history, which is currently underway. With a passion for performance and pioneering power, excellence and an unwavering commitment to customer service, the brand has consistently shaped the future of mobility. The result goes well beyond engineering achievement – it creates the unmistakable feeling which defines Mercedes-Benz in all it does: Welcome home. 

 Mercedes-Benz is celebrating 140 years of innovation by sending three new S-Class saloons on a transcontinental journey to 140 locations worldwide. Each place highlights the brand’s technology, heritage, pioneering spirit and global presence. Along the way customers, fans and colleagues will get to join in the celebrations – on an epic adventure that will run until October. Follow the “140 Years. 140 Places” drive across six continents on our “140 years of innovation | Mercedes-Benz Media” special and via the Mercedes-Benz Community.