There is something truly rewarding about owning a classic car. Each classic car has a different story to tell. Recently, DaimlerChrysler together with the Mercedes-Benz Club of Thailand organized Asia’s first Mercedes-Benz Star Drive in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Members of the press and Mercedes-Benz club members from all over the world took a three-day pleasure drive along the picturesque and cool Northern Thailand terrain in classic as well as modern Mercedes-Benzes of all ages, shapes and sizes.

Chiang Mai is a city in Northern Thailand that has a rich and unique history that spans over 700 years with its distinctive Lanna architecture, geography and culture. Renowned for its temples, these magnificent pagodas complement the 1960’s W113 Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters that participated during the event. These particular SL models were commonly called “Pagoda Benzes” because of its unusual hardtop roof design.

The three-day drive gave its participants an opportunity to drive and experience the nostalgic feel of classic cars alongside modern Mercedes-Benzes.  The cool and pollution-free atmosphere was also a perfect setting for an open-top drive and the author was treated to an afternoon drive in a rare and well-restored 1956 W198 300SL roadster. The 300SL ably negotiated the winding and mountainous roads while basking in the summer sun with the air-con running. It was surprising to note that its air-con is as powerful as its modern-day siblings.

The culminating event was held in Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi. Dhara Dhevi is the Sanskrit name for “Star Goddess”, which was a befitting name of for the occasion. Among the stars (or rather tri-stars) in the gala dinner was a 300SL Gullwing plus a number of other finely restored classic convertibles and sedans.