Enduring Passion: The Story of the Mercedes-Benz Brand

by Leslie Butterfield

The three-pointed star. Magic. Mystique. Mercedes-Benz. With its legendary performance and quality, Mercedes-Benz is one of the most recognizable brands in existence. The first book to examine Mercedes-Benz as a brand phenomenon, Enduring Passion provides a fascinating look at how the brand developed and the myths and realities surrounding it as it faced the global convulsions of war, mergers, and economic uncertainty. Handsomely produced in a large format and richly illustrated with previously unpublished photographs, Enduring Passion is the life story of the Mercedes-Benz brand and how its iconic symbol became a synonym for power and elegance.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Hardcover

First published December 6, 2005

Reviews

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of all of the books about Mercedes-Benz that I've read thus far, this book is by far the most readable, the most informative, and has the best design. Unlike the majority of books about cars, the author chose to focus on the intrinsic and difficult to define concept of what makes Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz rather than the mechanics behind the cars. Anyone can duplicate mechanical ingenuity (barring trademark infringement of course), but what makes Mercedes-Benz the most sought after brand of luxury automobile is far more reliant on perception and reputation than simple mechanics. Of course, the company has long been at the forefront of the motorvehicle industry - Daimler and Benz did invent the combustion engine afterall and pioneer the concept of the personal vehicle - but Butterfield takes the reader through the entire history of the two companies that became one. He does not mince history and fully admits the failings and foibles of the company, since after all it is these gltiches that resulted in the unique company and brand that we see today. This is definitely a book that I have to add to my collection, since it is key in giving a clear, concise, and unique perspective on the Mercedes-Benz brand.