Star on the hood: the whole truth about the car brand with the star emblem

Introduction: why is the star on a car always a Mercedes?

When you see a car on the road with an emblem like three-pointed star in a circle, there is no doubt: before you is the legendary Mercedes-Benz. This logo is one of the most recognizable in the world, symbolizing luxury, reliability and engineering excellence. But why exactly a star? And what is hidden behind this simple, at first glance, sign?

The history of the emblem goes back to the beginning of the 20th century, when the founders of the company - Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz — decided to join forces. The star embodied the brand's commitment to leadership in three areas: land, water and air. Today it is associated with premium cars, which are chosen by successful people around the world. In this article we will look at how the logo has evolved, what models Mercedes-Benz have become iconic, and what to look for when buying a used car with this emblem.

You will be surprised, but not all cars with a star on the hood are real. Mercedes. There are clones, replicas and even other brands that have used similar symbols. How not to make a mistake and recognize the original? More on this later.

History of the logo: from the three-pointed star to modern design

The first version of the logo appeared in 1909when Gottlieb Daimler's son, Paul Daimler, registered the three-pointed star as a trademark. Initially, it symbolized the three elements in which the company planned to dominate: earth (cars), water (boats) and air (airplanes). However, the emblem was officially patented only in 1911, and she appeared in the circle later - in 1916, after the merger Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG) and Benz & Cie.

Fun fact: a four-pointed star (like Mercedes-AMG) is not a mistake by the designer, but a tribute to tradition. She appeared in 1990swhen the unit AMG became the official tuning studio of the brand. The fourth ray symbolizes the high performance and sporty nature of the models.

The modern logo is a stylized three-pointed star surrounded by silver, but its design has changed several times. For example, in 2000s the star became more voluminous, and in 2022 the brand introduced a flat version for electric vehicles EQ. Here are the key stages of evolution:

• 🌟 1909–1916: A three-pointed star without a circle, symbolizing the company's ambitions.
• 🔵 1916–1926: Star in a circle with inscription "Mercedes" (after merger with Benz).
• ⚫ 1926–1989: The classic black logo with a silver star that everyone recognized.
• 🔄 1989–2022: 3D effect added for a premium look.
• ⚡ 2022–present: Flat design for the digital age and electric cars.

Logo Mercedes-Benz is protected by law: its falsification or unauthorized use is prosecuted under copyright infringement. For example, in 2019 the company sued a Chinese manufacturer who copied the star for its cars.

What cars other than Mercedes-Benz have a star emblem?

Although Mercedes-Benz - the most famous brand with a star, it is not the only one. Some car companies and even motorcycles have used similar symbols. Here are the most interesting cases:

1. Maybach (1921–1941, 2002–present)

Luxury sub-brand Mercedes-Benz, named after the engineering genius Wilhelm Maybach. Its emblem is a double letter "M" in a circle, but on some models (for example, Maybach 57/62) star Mercedes still present on the hood.

2. Zastava (Yugoslavia, 1953–2008)

Yugoslav car manufacturer that produced licensed Fiats and our own models. Its logo is a stylized star within a shield, which is sometimes confused with Mercedes. The most famous model is Zastava 750 (clone Fiat 600).

3. Simca (France, 1934–1978)

French brand, later absorbed Chrysler Europe. Its logo is a swallow in a circle, but some logos from the 1950s featured a star-like shape.

4. NSU Motorcycles (Germany, 1901–1969)

The German motorcycle and car manufacturer used an emblem with a star in a shield. The company became famous for its model NSU Prinz, but in 1969 was absorbed Volkswagen.

5. Chinese clones

There are brands in China that deliberately copy designs Mercedes, for example, Shuanghuan Noble (clone Mercedes-Benz M-Class) or Zotye Z300 (similar to E-Class). Their emblems often imitate a star, but with different elements.

⚠️ Attention: If you see a used one "Mercedes" at a suspiciously low price with a custom emblem, check the VIN! Chinese replicas are often disguised as originals, but their quality and safety do not meet German standards.

Brand	Emblem	Similarities with Mercedes	Model example
Maybach	Double "M" in a circle	The star is present on some models	Maybach 62
Zastava	Star in the shield	The star shape is similar, but the design is different	Zastava 750
Shuanghuan	Stylized star	Deliberate imitation	Shuanghuan Noble
NSU	Star in the shield	Historical similarities	NSU Prinz

Iconic Mercedes-Benz models with a star: from classic to modern

For more than 100 years of history Mercedes-Benz released dozens of legendary models. Some of them became symbols of the era, others - standards of engineering. Let's look at the most iconic cars with a star on the hood.

1. Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" (1954–1957)

An iconic sports car with doors that open upwards. Equipped 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine 215 hp and accelerated to 260 km/h - a fantastic indicator for the 1950s. Today the original copies are worth more than $1 million at auctions.

2. Mercedes-Benz W124 (1984–1995)

One of the most reliable sedans in history. Models with diesel engines (300 D) passed without major repairs more than 1 million km. In the 1990s W124 was a symbol of success in Russia - it was preferred by businessmen and officials.

3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140, 1991–1998)

The flagship sedan that defined the standard for premium cars. B W140 first appeared: double glazing for sound insulation, air suspension and system ESP. It was a car for presidents and oligarchs - they bought it Boris Yeltsin and Roman Abramovich.

4. Mercedes-Benz G-Class (1979–present)

A legendary SUV that was originally developed as a military vehicle. Its angular design has not changed 40 years old, but under the hood G-Class There have always been the latest technologies. Today it is a status car that is adored by show business stars.

5. Mercedes-AMG Project ONE (2022–present)

Hypercar with hybrid power plant from Formula 1. His 1.6 liter V6 turbo develops 1049 hp, and the price exceeds $2.7 million. This is the most technologically advanced Mercedes in history.

• 🏆 The most reliable model: W124 (1984–1995) - mileage records without repair.
• 💰 Most expensive model: Maybach Exelero (2005) - $8 million.
• ⚡ Fastest model: AMG ONE — acceleration to 100 km/h in 2.2 seconds.
• 🌍 The most popular model: W201 (1982–1993) - 1.9 million copies sold.

Check the VIN through an official Mercedes service|Inspect the emblem: on the original, the star is attached to two pins|Check the build quality: the gaps between the panels should be the same|Make sure that all windows have the Mercedes logo-->

How to distinguish an original Mercedes from a fake or replica?

The used car market is infested with scammers, and Mercedes-Benz - one of the most popular targets. Here 5 Key Signs, by which you can distinguish the original from a fake or replica.

1. Emblem and insignia

On the original Mercedes the star on the hood is attached to two pins (clones often have one or glue). Also check:

- Caption "Mercedes-Benz" should be on the trunk convex, not a sticker.

- All windows (except the windshield) must have the brand logo.

- There is also a star on the steering wheel, wheel covers and ignition key.

2. VIN code and documentation

Check the VIN code through the official service Mercedes-Benz (https://www.mercedes-benz.com/vin-decoder). The original code starts with:

- WDB - for passenger cars (for example, WDB2100741A123456).

- WDC - for commercial vehicles.

- WDD - for AMG and sports models.

If the VIN fails verification or starts with different letters (for example, LSV - Chinese clones), this is a fake.

3. Build quality and materials

The German assembly is different ideal gaps between body panels (no more than 3 mm). Please note:

- Plastic in the cabin: the original has it soft to the touch, no burrs.

- Doors: must close with dull sound, no rattling.

- Paint: it’s on the original flat, without smudges (check with a thickness gauge).

4. Technical features

Counterfeits are often issued:

- Poor suspension quality (knocks when driving over bumps).

- Lack of original inscriptions on the engine (for example, "M112" for V6).

- Mismatch of numbers on units (on the box, engine and body must match).

5. Price and history of the car

If Mercedes S-Class 2015 offer for 1.5 million rubles (market price - from 3 million), this is a reason to be wary. Check history via CarVertical or Autocheck: The original must have a full service history from an authorized dealer.

⚠️ Attention: Be especially careful with Mercedes from Germany with mileage less than 50,000 km. Low mileage may mean the odometer is twisted - check it through a diagnostic scanner or an independent expert.

How to check a Mercedes for mileage misalignment?

Compare the mileage in the PTS (vehicle passport) with the data from the on-board computer (menu Service → Vehicle Data). Also pay attention to the wear of the steering wheel, pedals and seats - if after a mileage of 30,000 km the steering wheel is worn out, this is a clear sign of twisting.

Should you buy a Mercedes-Benz today? Pros and cons of the brand

Mercedes-Benz - it's not just a car, but status symbol. However, the brand has both undeniable advantages and disadvantages that you should know about before purchasing.

Pros:

• 🏆 Prestige and image. The star on the hood speaks for itself - it is a sign of success.
• 🛡️ Reliability (for some models). For example, W124, W202 and W210 famous for its “million-dollar” runs.
• 🔧 Developed dealer network. There are more than 100 official services in Russia Mercedes-Benz.
• 💡 Innovation. The brand is the first to introduce new technologies (for example, Drive Pilot — autopilot level 3).
• 📉 Good liquidity. Used Mercedes easy to sell, especially models E-Class and GLC.

Cons:

• 💸 High cost of ownership. Service from an authorized dealer costs 1.5–2 times more expensivethan mass brands.
• 🔧 Difficulty of repair. Many units (for example, 7G-Tronic) require specialized equipment.
• 📉 Depreciation of new models. For the first 3 years Mercedes loses up 40% cost.
• 🛑 Problems with electronics. Systems COMAND and MBUX often buggy, especially in Russian conditions.
• 🚗 High fuel consumption. Even low-power diesel engines (OM654) consume 8–10 l/100 km in the city.

If you are choosing between new Mercedes and used, please note that Warranty for new models is 4 years, and the cost of insurance (especially CASCO) will be higher than Toyota or Volkswagen.

The future of Mercedes-Benz: electric vehicles and new technologies

Mercedes-Benz actively switches to electric traction. K 2030 the brand plans to do 50% of its model range is fully electric. Here are the key new items to look forward to:

1. Mercedes-Benz EQE and EQS (2021–present)

Flagship electric cars with a range of up to 780 km (according to the WLTP cycle). Equipped with a system Hyperscreen - a gigantic 56-inch display that occupies the entire panel. Prices start from 7 million rubles.

2. Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4Matic+ (2023–present)

Electric AMG with 677 hp and acceleration to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds. Uses technology AMG Dynamic Plus for improved dynamics.

3. Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR (concept, 2020)

Futuristic prototype created in collaboration with the film "Avatar". Equipped bionic design, graphene-based batteries (without rare earth metals) and the ability to move sideways (like a crab).

4. Autonomous driving (Drive Pilot, level 3)

C 2022 Mercedes offers a system Drive Pilot, allowing the car to drive without driver participation at speeds up to 60 km/h (in traffic jams). B 2026 the technology has been certified for use in the USA and China.

5. Hydrogen cars (GLC F-Cell)

B 2026 Mercedes plans to release a serial hydrogen crossover GLC F-Cell with power reserve 400+ km and refueling in 3 minutes. This is an alternative to electric cars for regions with cold climates.

The brand is also working on sustainable materials: New models use recycled plastics, vegan leather and even mushroom mycelium instead of traditional finishing materials.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions about Mercedes-Benz

🔍 Why is Mercedes-Benz called "Mercedes"?

Title "Mercedes" appeared in 1901 in honor of the daughter of an Austrian businessman Emil Jellinek — Mercedes Jellinek. Jellinek was a dealer Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft and insisted on naming the new model after his daughter. This is how it appeared Mercedes 35 HP - the first car with this name.

💰 How much does the cheapest new Mercedes-Benz cost in 2026?

The most affordable model - Mercedes-Benz A-Class as standard A 180. Its price in Russia starts from 3.5 million rubles. However, given the options (e.g. MBUX, leather interior) the cost easily exceeds 4.5 million.

🔧 Which Mercedes-Benz engines are the most reliable?

According to experts and owners, the most durable engines Mercedes:

• OM617 (diesel, 1970–1990s) - mileage 1 million+ km.
• M104 (gasoline, 1989–1997) — in-line “six” with a timing chain.
• OM606 (diesel, 1993–2001) - used in W124 and W210.
• M272 (gasoline, 2004–2015) — V6 with service life 300,000+ km.

Avoid engines M271 (compressor) and M273 (V8) - they have frequent problems with the timing chain.

⚡ Is it possible to drive a Mercedes-Benz on 92 gasoline?

No! Most modern Mercedes-Benz require 95 or 98 gasoline. Usage AI-92 will lead to:

• Detonation and engine damage.
• Reduced power and increased fuel consumption.
• Loss of warranty (if the car is under warranty).

The exception is some older models (for example, W124 with motor M102), but also for them 92 gasoline is not recommended.

🔄 How often should Mercedes-Benz be serviced?

Recommended service interval - every 15,000 km or once a year (whichever comes first). However, for some models and operating conditions the intervals differ:

• Diesel engines: oil change every 10,000–12,000 km.
• AMG and sports models: service every 10,000 km.
• Electric vehicles (EQ): check every 30,000 km (but fluid replacement is still needed!).

In Russian conditions (bad roads, frost), it is better to reduce the interval to 10,000–12,000 km.