1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 Saloon
Chassis no. 100 012 12 000624
'In an age when flaunting your wealth wasn't a crime, the 600 was the automotive equivalent of Monaco. It's a masterpiece of engineering, a quantum leap over its opposition, and redefines the word opulence.' - Classic & Sportscar magazine.
By the commencement of the 1960s, Mercedes-Benz's ever-expanding model range was lacking in only one department: a super prestige saloon to rival the Grosser Mercedes of the past. This gap was filled in September 1963 with the appearance at the Frankfurt International Motor Show of the all-new 600. Representing state-of-the-art automotive engineering in just about every department, the supremely well-equipped newcomer featured an overhead-camshaft, fuel-injected, 6.3-litre V8 engine - Mercedes' first - air suspension with variable ride control, four-speed automatic transmission, all-round disc brakes, power-assisted steering, central locking and separate air conditioning systems for front and rear compartments. Its cosseted occupants enjoyed the advantages conferred by multi-way adjustable seating powered by a sophisticated system of hydraulics that also operated the windows and assisted in opening/closing the doors and boot lid.
The most popular version was the 3,200mm (10' 6") wheelbase saloon that could seat up to six passengers, while the long-wheelbase Pullman limousine - a veritable leviathan exceeding 20' in length and beloved of Heads of State, not to mention a succession of Popes - could accommodate up to eight. Despite its not inconsiderable weight the 600 was endowed with highly respectable performance, reaching 60mph in a little under 10 seconds and exceeding 125mph flat out. Only 2,677 examples were made, of which 2,190 were four-door saloons, 428 were Pullman limousines and 59 were landaulettes.
Sold new in the USA, this example comes with Mercedes-Benz certificate confirming matching numbers and the fact that it was originally ordered with floor-shift automatic transmission. The car was purchased by the current owner at Bonhams' sale at La Halle Freysinnet, Paris in February 2012 having been in the previous owner's hands for some eight years (sales invoice on file). We are advised that it was fully re-sprayed in the previous owner's garage (at a cost equivalent to approximately €30,000) and that the suspension is in working order. The car is described as in generally good condition, defective air conditioning being the only fault notified. There are three invoices on file relating to servicing carried out since its acquisition in 2012, and the car also comes with the aforementioned Mercedes-Benz certificate, ID Card and Romanian registration papers. Whether driven by the owner or his/her chauffeur, this high-performance limousine affords the prospect of an intoxicating motoring experience rivalling that offered by many of today's most expensive luxury cars.
