LOT 120
1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB Chassis no. 100.012.12.001366
Sold for US$80,640 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 120
From the Ernie Boch Jr. Collection
1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB
1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB
The Audrain Concours Auction|4 October 2024, 17:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame
1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB
Chassis no. 100.012.12.001366
Chassis no. 100.012.12.001366
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
*Among the most iconic, high-quality luxury sedans ever manufactured
*Legendary 6.3-liter M100 V8 engine
*Equipped with myriad conceivable luxury equipment
*Optional Becker radio, refrigerated console, and privacy curtains
*Handsome Dark Green (DB291) over Cognac leather upholstery
*Beautifully presented and expertly maintained by a noted collector
*Original US-delivery model
THE MERCEDES-BENZ 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 (including the occasional dictator), 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 Sedan was endowed with highly impressive performance, reaching 60mph (97km/h) in a little under 10 seconds and exceeding 125mph (201km/h) flat out – nearly as quick as a contemporary Porsche 911T! 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 CAR OFFERED
This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 'SWB' Sedan is a fine example presented handsomely in DB291 Dark Green over a Cognac leather interior. It is very well preserved throughout and is reported to have been well-maintained in previous and current ownership, critical when considering one of these over-engineered masterpieces. These big 600 sedans have spectacular road presence, especially in a dark color such as this, and the driving experience is thoroughly modern thanks to pneumatic suspension ride quality, powerful brakes, and the massively powerful V8 engine.
The luxurious interior is trimmed in Cognac leather with matching carpet. Woodwork extends to the dash, door caps and windscreen frames which all presents well in preserved original order. A proper Becker Grand Prix radio resides in the dash, and this example is optioned with the refrigerated console and privacy curtains for the rear passengers.
The 600 offered unrivaled luxury and stunningly strong performance made it the choice for dictators, heads of state and captains of industry alike. This short-wheelbase version delivers the same impressive engineering as long-wheelbase Pullman, but in a more accessible package. With any 600, maintenance and care are of utmost importance. This example has reportedly benefited from regular use and care, with previous records going back to the 1990s. As part of a more recent "E" service, it was converted to an optic distributor pickup replacing the points. Shown at the 2012 Greystone Mansion Concours, this attractive and usable 600 sedan is ready for its next custodian to enjoy the blend of performance, engineering excellence and vault-like quality that only the 'Grosser' Mercedes 600 can deliver.
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistAuction Viewings
- 3 October 2024, 09:00 - 18:00 EDT
- 4 October 2024, 09:00 - 16:00 EDT
Bid now on these items
United Kingdom
1899 Phébus 2¼hp Motor Tricycle
£50,000 - £60,000
United KingdomOffered without reserve
1910 Brasier 12/18HP 12C Tourer
£40,000 - £60,000
United Kingdom
1913 Hotchkiss Model AD 20/30 Tourer
£50,000 - £60,000
United Kingdom
1902 Beaufort 8hp Two-Seater Phaeton
£50,000 - £70,000
United KingdomOffered without reserve
c.1901 Gladiator Four-Seat Rear-Entrance Tonneau
£50,000 - £70,000