Gorden Wagener, former Chief Design Officer of Mercedes, recently shared a previously unseen concept car—a modern reimagining of the iconic 1971 Mercedes 300 SEL 6.8 AMG, nicknamed the “Red Pig.” This reveal, posted on social media, offers a glimpse into a design study that remained hidden within the company’s archives for years.
The Legacy of the “Red Pig”
The original “Red Pig” holds significant historical weight. It was a racing sedan that predated Mercedes’ full acquisition of AMG by nearly three decades—effectively launching the performance division’s story in 1971. The car’s unlikely success, securing a class win and finishing second overall at the 24 Hours of Spa against lighter competition, established AMG’s early reputation.
This matters because: The “Red Pig” represents a pivotal moment in automotive history, demonstrating that performance and luxury weren’t mutually exclusive. It laid the groundwork for AMG’s later integration into Mercedes, shaping the high-performance image the brand carries today.
Design Details: Retro Meets Modern
The concept blends classic Mercedes proportions with contemporary design elements. A prominent chrome grille—reminiscent of the new GLC EQ—dominates the front, flanked by vertically stacked headlights and low-mounted LED rings. The bodywork incorporates aerodynamic features inspired by recent Mercedes and AMG concepts, while retaining styling cues from the original: a vintage splitter, racing livery, and AMG-branded five-spoke wheels.
The rear features full-width LED taillights, integrated with LED rings on the diffuser. From certain angles, it evokes a sportier take on the one-off Mercedes-Benz S600 Royale—another unusual custom creation from Mercedes.
Engineering Constraints? Not a Problem.
While the concept is visually striking, it’s unlikely to see production. There are no technical specifications or powertrain details, as this was purely a design study, free from the usual engineering limitations.
The original “Rote Sau” (Red Pig) was no joke: Its 6.8-liter V8 produced 428 hp, propelling the 1,635 kg sedan to a top speed of 265 km/h.
What Does This Mean?
Mercedes’ decision to unveil this concept now—through Wagener’s personal channels rather than an official announcement—suggests it was never intended for public consumption. This reinforces the idea that the design was a private exploration of AMG’s heritage, rather than a preview of future models. The “Red Pig” concept serves as a reminder of AMG’s racing roots, a legacy that continues to shape the brand’s identity.
The unveiling is a symbolic gesture, highlighting the depth of design exploration within Mercedes—and perhaps a final statement from Wagener before stepping down from his role.
