In the photo above: Examination of a manipulated Mercedes 300 SL by the LKA Baden-Württemberg.
It is one of the most spectacular economic scandals in recent years. The target of the proceedings: the Mercedes specialist Kienle from Heimerdingen, north of Stuttgart.
A trading and restoration company with an excellent reputation worldwide and wealthy customers from all parts of the world: car enthusiasts, royals, industrialists and show stars.
The case makes headlines around the world
In May 2023, two dozen officers searched workshops, offices and private rooms of the Kienle Automobiltechnik company.
The managing director Klaus Kienle is considered one of the best restorers in the world for an icon of German automotive art: the Mercedes 300 SL. The authorities accuse Kienle of commercial fraud.
Specifically, it’s about an SL from 1961. Its value: around 1.6 million euros. Kienle is said to have sold the vehicle, an exquisite gullwing, as a counterfeit.
The case is making headlines around the world and causing an earthquake in the world of luxury classics. Because many people ask themselves: Is this just the tip of an iceberg?
Only interview of the main suspect
Who are the alleged victims, who are the actors? And: Who are there? How big is this criminal case?
In the documentary “Classic Car Scandal – The Deep Fall of Klaus Kienle,” former customers as well as former employees of the Kienle company speak exclusively.
Documents were leaked to SWR that shed completely new light on this case.
And: The SWR journalists are the only ones in the world to whom the main suspect in this economic crime gave an interview.
“Classic car scandal – the deep fall of Klaus Kienle” will be shown on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 9:00 p.m. on SWR television and can be found in the media library.
