Some of the most interesting cars never make it past the studio wall, and Mercedes has clearly had more than a few of those “what if” moments over the years. Gorden Wagener, who recently retired after leading Mercedes-Benz design, shared a previously unseen concept on Instagram that instantly grabbed enthusiasts: a modern tribute to the legendary AMG “Red Pig,” only this one is kept moody and dark instead of drenched in bright red.
The original “Rote Sau” story is the kind of motorsports folklore you can tell in one breath and still get goosebumps. Back in AMG’s early days, long before it became Mercedes’ in-house performance powerhouse, the team transformed the big Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 into an unlikely race car for the 1971 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. It looked oversized, sounded angry, and shocked everyone with a second-place finish, earning the “Red Pig” nickname thanks to its vivid paint and hefty proportions.
Wagener’s modern take leans hard into that same bold attitude. The front end is dominated by a square, chrome-heavy grille that feels unapologetically old-school, paired with striking yellow lighting elements that nod to the three-pointed star. Add in the brawny bodywork, wide-shouldered stance, and those circular auxiliary lights protruding up front, and it comes across as part heritage racer, part futuristic street bruiser. Even the livery is simplified, just enough to make the reference obvious without turning it into a costume.
It never progressed beyond renderings, which almost makes it more intriguing, like a secret chapter from a design book that you were never meant to read. Still, it is a cool reminder that Mercedes does occasionally peek into its own back catalog for inspiration, especially when the history is this outrageous. If nothing else, Wagener sharing the concept gives enthusiasts a fresh reason to celebrate one of AMG’s most unlikely heroes, even if this reboot will stay forever in the shadows.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
