Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

As the undisputed icon of its time, the 1959 Cadillac epitomizes the 1950s ethos: embracing excess with the belief that more is better and too much is never enough. The well-known narrative unfolds with a glimpse of Chrysler’s radical 1957 lineup prompting a swift response from GM. Fearing their ’59 cars would be overshadowed, a…

The Ford Model T, also known as the “Universal Car” for its widespread availability and simplicity, may have had its own appeal, but it wasn’t particularly stylish, especially towards the end of its production in 1927. Its successor, the Model A, was a significant improvement in terms of mechanics, thanks in large part to its…

The 508S Balilla Sport competition version drew its inspiration from an original design by Carrozzeria Ghia, and it was based on the highly successful 508 Balilla saloon. This saloon was not only the first FIAT model of the inter-war years to receive a name along with a number, but it also served as the foundation…

The 1958 model year is revered for its extravagant and oversized cars with lavish trim. Among them, the standout is the 1958 Buick Limited, which revived the prestigious Limited name associated with Buick’s grandest and most expensive models. With its remarkable “Fashion Air Dynastar” styling, including a striking grille adorned with 160 chrome squares, the…

On 15 February 1936, Mercedes-Benz presented the 170 V (W 136) at the International Automobile and Motorcycle Exhibition (IAMA) in Berlin. This marked the beginning of a success story for the brand: fifty years after the invention of the car by Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, the technically sophisticated and visually striking 170 V became a bestseller and secured…

With the 300 series, Mercedes-Benz reclaimed its place as one of the top automotive manufacturers in the world. The all-new 300 series took its place as the company’s flagship. Initially offered only as a sedan, within months, the 300 S Coupes, Cabriolets and Roadsters debuted at the Paris Auto show and their distinct variations recalled…

The 280SE 3.5 is one of the most desirable of all postwar Mercedes this side of the 300SL. They represent the end of the handbuilt era and are exceptionally fine cars to drive. Collectors have taken notice and values have risen dramatically in the past several years.

The 1950s was the era when the sports car truly came of age, as stunning aerodynamic design met performance forged in the white heat of competition. Few models exemplified that electrifying fusion quite as completely as the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, a machine born of the first true supercar, yet endowed with a glorious open…

Both models of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL present a valuable case study in what makes a car collectible. To be a top choice, reliability and real-world functionality are key. Here, both 300 SL models are brilliantly engineered and among the best-made, highest-quality cars of its era. But the Roadster gains extra points for being so…

In 1937, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Type 230 “N,” internally designated W143. As the successor to the previous Type 230 (W21), it used its predecessor’s chassis with four-wheel independent suspension and a 2,700-millimetre wheelbase. Rather oddly, the marque also produced a longer-wheelbase version of the same powertrain family, and as such, these smaller and more sporting…