Footnotes

One of Mercedes-Benz's first all-new designs of the post-war era, the 300 debuted at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 1951 and would succeed in re-establishing the Stuttgart firm in the front rank of prestige car manufacturers, marking as it did a return to the marque's tradition of building high-performance luxury automobiles of the finest quality.

The 300's cross-braced, oval-tube chassis followed the lines of the 170S and 220 but incorporated the added refinements of hypoid bevel final drive, dynamically balanced wheels and remote electrical control of the rear suspension ride height. Initially developing 115bhp, the 3-litre, overhead-camshaft, six-cylinder engine - used in fuel-injected form in the 300SL sports car - was boosted in power for the succeeding 300b and 300c models, finally gaining fuel injection in the re-styled 300d of 1957. Other improvements along the way included larger brakes (with servo-assistance from 1954), optional power steering (on the 300d) and the adoption of three-speed automatic transmission as standard on the latter.

Custom built by Mercedes-Benz's most experienced craftsmen, the 300 was luxuriously appointed and trimmed with materials of the highest quality. Fast and elegant, it was one of very few contemporary vehicles capable of carrying six passengers in comfort at sustained high speeds. It was the car of choice among West German government officials, and throughout Europe and the USA was widely favoured by businessmen, financiers and politicians. Indeed, 'Adenauer' became the 300 saloon/limousine's unofficial model name, after German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, its most famous customer.

This 300d saloon features that model's revised, pillar-less coachwork and fuel-injected engine. It is one of 65 300d models produced and one of only 16 completed in 1961 as production wound down (only one car was built in 1962, the final year of production). Unfortunately, nothing is known of its history. It has been on static display since circa 2013 and will require recommissioning prior to road use.

A rare opportunity to acquire an example of Mercedes-Benz's much sought after 1950s flagship at a most affordable price.

Please note that if this vehicle remains within the Netherlands the reduced rate of Import VAT at 9% will be charged on the hammer price. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered country's rate. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.