1972 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB

6,329cc SOHC V8 Engine
Bosch Fuel Injection
250bhp at 4,100rpm
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Dual-Circuit Hydraulic Disc Brakes
4-Wheel Independent Pneumatic Self-levelling Suspension

*Featured in the movie The Witches of Eastwick with Jack Nicholson behind the wheel
*Purchased right from the movie set by legendary actor Jack Nicholson
*A decade-long California car, gifted to The Petersen Automotive Museum by Mr. Nicholson
*Among the most iconic, high-quality Luxury Sedans ever manufactured


THE MERCEDES 600

'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-liter 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 also 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") short wheelbase Sedan 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. Celebrity owners of the 600 included none-less than the King of Rock and Roll himself – Elvis Presley – as well as John Lennon and Hugh Hefner. Despite its not inconsiderable weight, the 600 was endowed with highly respectable performance, reaching 60mph (97km/h) in a little under 10 seconds and exceeding 125mph (201km/h) flat out. Only 2,677 examples had been made when production ceased in 1981, of which 2,190 were four-door SWB Sedans, 428 were Pullman Limousines, and 59 were Landaulettes.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This 'movie star' 600 'Grosser Mercedes' was manufactured largely by hand to the highest standards of the Mercedes-Benz luxury brand, at the Stuttgart-based plant during October of 1971. Denoted as a 1972 model-year car, the new top-of-the-world type luxury Sedan is believed to have been delivered new to the Golden state of California. These imposing Mercedes-Benz 600 models gained the reputation of transporting in grace and style the most important (for good or bad) people during the 1970s and 1980s, so it was very befitting, that this very car was chosen to feature in the 1987 Warner Bros. dark fantasy-comedy movie The Witches of Eastwick, directed by George Miller, starring Jack Nicholson as the lead figure 'Daryl Van Horne', and Cher, Michelle Pfeiffer and Susan Sarandon as the titular witches. This Mercedes-Benz 600 was driven in anger by Jack Nicholson - portraying the satanic Daryl Van Horne - chasing down the highway banging into the guard rails. After the movie, Mr. Nicholson acquired the Mercedes-Benz from the production company, and had a restoration of the bodywork carried out. The car would remain in the legendary actor's care for decades, until gifted to the Los Angeles-based Petersen Automotive Museum, and is today offered from them, having formed part of their famous Vault Collection for years. A mechanical service and check-up is advised before extensive use.

Today the 'Witches of Eastwick' Mercedes-Benz 600 presents in beautiful condition inside and out, with much of the chrome and brightwork - possibly the interior - remaining in well-preserved, original condition. The stately and iconic Sedan bodywork is finished in appropriate Bordeaux red, while the interior is trimmed in Cognac leather. Sunroof and air conditioning is fitted, in addition to the many other factory power amenities these cars came with. A true Hollywood Star of a Mercedes-Benz, this luxurious 600 SWB Sedan makes as much of a statement as it did when new and have deservedly become one of the most collectible 4-door automobiles ever made.