This Mercedes-Benz 500 SL once belonged to Diana Spencer

Wine red Mercedes-Benz 500 SL

In December 1991, Princess Diana bought this wine-red Mercedes-Benz 500 SL. In doing so, Diana became the first member of the Royal Family to drive a non-British car. Diana expressed her criticism of the government, unions and industry in this way.

Comments on choice

In September 1992, she returned the keys to this 500 SL. Why? She was pressured by the government. Diana herself absolutely loved her Mercedes-Benz R129, only her choice of a German Mercedes-Benz caused quite a stir. At the time she bought this SL, she traded in her Jaguar XJS. According to the UK, that really couldn’t happen.

Accident

Just five years later – on Aug. 31, 1997 – Diana died. She was involved in a car accident in the Pont de l’Alma tunnel in Paris. The story goes that the Mercedes-Benz she was in was being chased by paparazzi. The car crashed at high speed. Driver Henri Paul and Dodi Fayed, who were also in the car, were also unable to recount the accident.

Diana’s crash led to intense international media attention and brought the practices of paparazzi under the microscope. Investigations later revealed that the driver, Henri Paul, was under the influence of alcohol and certain medications, which significantly impaired his ability to drive.

Still loved

This accident had a profound impact on the public and led to changes in how the media treated celebrities. Princess Diana is remembered to this day for her humanitarian work and influence as a cultural icon. Her beloved 500 SL has a sweet spot in the Mercedes-Benz Museum.