Mercedes Benz W196 Stromlinienwagen (1954) Steel (300bhp) Musee des Beaux Arts, Montréal, Canada Recorded September 17, 1995

Considered by many to be the finest example of the function and essence of racing design, the W196 Stromlinienwagen stands as a peerless ür-wagen. Once a serious contender in the highest echelons of motor sport, this Stromlinienwagen is now much too valuable to be put to its intended purposes. Where once it emanated a rich, throaty, and thoroughly intimidating rumble, the only sounds it generates now are appreciative sighs and occasional warning beeps from nearby pacemakers.