From Stuttgart to Southeast Asia: Tim Walkowiak’s Epic Road Trip in a Classic Mercedes-Benz

Some journeys are about more than just the destination—they’re about the stories, the challenges, and the sheer joy of the open road. For Tim Walkowiak, a German executive at Porsche Singapore, and his friend Tobi, a fellow petrolhead from Porsche AG, the allure of adventure took shape in the form of a 1983 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL, affectionately dubbed "the Benz."

Over nine days, they covered an astonishing 5,000 kilometers, crossing four countries and experiencing the kind of moments that turn a road trip into legend. From navigating the sweltering heat of Southeast Asia to getting soaked during Thailand’s Songkran Festival, Tim and Tobi’s journey wasn’t just about the car—it was about the spirit of exploration.

How It All Began

Like many great adventures, this one started over beers. During a Christmas holiday in Stuttgart, Tim and Tobi reminisced about their travels across Africa, Europe, and New Zealand. But this time, they wanted something different: a road trip that combined their love of classic cars and their thirst for the road less travelled.

Tim had recently acquired the Benz, a Petrol-Blue W126 500SEL that had already proven itself on shorter trips to Malaysia. The idea of taking it across Southeast Asia quickly took hold. While many late-night pub plans fade away, this one stuck—and by April 2024, they were ready to hit the road.

The Car: A Classic with a Story

The Mercedes-Benz 500SEL isn’t just any car. It’s a masterpiece of German engineering, built as a long-wheelbase luxury sedan with a 5.0-liter V8 engine. Originally owned by a Hong Kong businessman, the car spent over three decades as a chauffeur-driven limousine before making its way to Australia and eventually Singapore.

Its Petrol-Blue colour, a rarity for luxury cars of its time, adds to its character. And despite being over 40 years old, the Benz boasts modern comforts like dual-zone air conditioning and electric seats, making it surprisingly well-suited for long road trips.

Tim’s meticulous preparation ensured the car was up to the challenge. Spare parts were sourced, protective film was applied to the headlights and windshield, and the car underwent a thorough inspection. As it turned out, the Benz was more than ready for the journey ahead.

The Journey: Nine Days, Four Countries, Endless Stories

Day 1: Singapore to Malaysia

The journey began with a familiar stretch—the drive from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur. But this time, it felt different. The Benz cruised effortlessly, its V8 engine purring as Tim and Tobi soaked in the anticipation of what lay ahead.

Day 2-3: Malaysia to Thailand

Crossing into Thailand brought its first taste of adventure. The Songkran Festival was in full swing, and as the Benz made its way through South Thailand, villagers and children splashed water onto the car. Far from being an inconvenience, it was a joyous celebration that set the tone for the days to come.

Day 4-6: Exploring Cambodia

The transition from Thailand to Cambodia was the most challenging border crossing. Lengthy document checks and import permits delayed the journey by over three hours. But the reward was worth it: a visit to the majestic Angkor Wat and a chance to experience Cambodia’s rich culture firsthand.

Day 7-9: The Final Stretch

The last leg of the trip took them through Vietnam, where bustling cities and serene countryside provided a fitting end to their journey. Throughout it all, the Benz proved its mettle, handling everything from record heat to long stretches of highway with ease.

Moments That Defined the Trip

1. Songkran in Thailand
Driving through the water-soaked festivities of Songkran, the Benz became part of the celebration. Children’s laughter and splashes of water created a magical atmosphere that Tim and Tobi will never forget.

2. The People They Met
From locals offering advice on the best places to eat to fellow car enthusiasts eager to check out the Benz, the connections made along the way added depth to the journey.

3. The Car’s Remarkable Reliability
Despite the punishing conditions, the Benz performed flawlessly, requiring only coolant top-ups. Its resilience became a symbol of the trip’s success.

Lessons for Aspiring Road Trippers

Tim and Tobi’s advice for anyone dreaming of their own epic road trip is simple but invaluable:

• Pick the Right Companion: Shared interests and a positive mindset are essential for a trip of this scale.
• Plan Meticulously: From securing spare parts to researching routes, preparation is key.
• Be Open to the Unexpected: Some of the best moments come from unplanned detours and spontaneous interactions.
• Just Go: Don’t wait for the perfect time—create it.

Looking Ahead

For Tim, this journey is just the beginning. He’s already dreaming of future road trips, including a possible drive back to Stuttgart with the Benz. Until then, this adventure stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the open road and the joy of exploring the world in a car that’s as much a character as the people driving it.

Whether you’re piloting a classic Mercedes or a modern hatchback, Tim and Tobi’s story is a reminder that the road is always open. All you need is a bit of courage, a dash of curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the journey.