1972 MPV Tehran Type - AllCarIndex

The MPV Tehran Type, a remarkable automobile, stands as a testament to collaborative innovation between three renowned German automotive manufacturers: Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Volkswagen. It represents a unique convergence of expertise from these companies, possibly marking the sole instance of their joint development efforts. Commissioned as a bespoke desert-racing vehicle, it served as a cherished possession for Crown Prince Rezza Pahlavy, the son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, who fled the country in 1979. Today, vehicles belonging to the late Shah hold significant cultural importance and are showcased in the National Car Museum of Iran, which boasts a collection of approximately 1200 automobiles.

Presented as a gift to the Royal Court by Germany's ambassador on behalf of Chancellor Willy Brandt, the MPV Tehran Type boasted a four-cylinder engine delivering 80 horsepower, propelling it to a top speed of 170 km/h. Notably, this vehicle's unique design emulated that of Formula 1 cars. Crown Prince Rezza Pahlavy received this remarkable vehicle at the age of 12, equipped with two keys symbolizing its dual nature. One, crafted from silver, imposed a speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour, catering to safety concerns. The other, fashioned from gold, unleashed the full power of the engine, allowing speeds of up to 170 km/h. However, despite its opulent features, it is known that the crown prince's father indulged in nocturnal car races, reflecting a different era's attitudes toward such activities. Despite any controversies, the MPV Tehran Type remained a symbol of its time, reflecting the complex interplay of politics and automotive innovation.