The W196 marked Mercedes-Benz's triumphant return to Grand Prix racing in 1954, immediately establishing dominance.
Development began in 1952 under chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, combining revolutionary fuel-injection technology with innovative monocoque construction.
The W196 debuted at the 1954 French Grand Prix at Reims where Juan Manuel Fangio achieved victory, securing the world championship.
Production concluded in 1955 after just nine examples were constructed, ending Mercedes-Benz's official Grand Prix program until 2010.
Production timeline
- 1954Introduction at Reims Grand Prix
- 1955Production ends
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