LITTLE ROCK - The word “Mercedes” naturally conjures up images of style, quality and luxury.

But to Dexter native Jeff Garner, it is all of that … and more.

Garner has been the owner of a 1970 Mercedes 280Sl for 24 years. But he recently took the restored car to a classic show in Jackson, Miss., and drove away with The Sponsors Choice Blue Ribbon from the Renaissance Euro Fest.

“I entered it in the show just for fun never dreaming I'd take home first place as voted by the Renaissance EuroFest sponsors. The sponsors were Atlanta, GA Ferrari, Jackson, MS Mercedes Benz and Jackson Volvo, and others. The weather that weekend was fantastic and the venue was great,” Garner said.

Garner is an alumnus of Dexter High School, Class of 1976, and has a dental clinic in Little Rock, Ark. His car has a number of unique options that Mercedes lovers like to see.

“One being an ‘Uber rare’ Mercedes Benz ski rack for the w113 SL. My car is one of the best w113 Mercedes Benz in the world,” he commented. The car was made in September 1969 and was the very first 1970 280SL manufactured by Mercedes Benz.

Garner says the vehicle has a bit of history as well.

He started a restoration project on the car about 2 ½ years ago by working on the interior himself. He installed new leather seats, carpet and other interior features

“But I found myself obsession over every tiny detail,” he said. “I decided it was best for my health to send the car off to Bud's Benz, the premier 280 SL restoration company located in the Atlanta, GA area.”

The Mercedes has now received a complete restoration, and Garner took it to the Jackson, Miss., show earlier this month. He said the people and the weather helped to make for a great weekend at the show.

“Winning was great, too,” he said.

Oh, and even after more than 2 years of being totally restored, Garner is going to enjoy his Mercedes Benz.

‘YES, I will drive it!”