1970 Mercedes-Benz 600 Saloon

• The ultimate in motoring luxury in its day
• Rare UK-supplied right-hand drive example
• Six owners from new
• Extensive professional refurbishment 2010-2012
• Hydraulic system functioning correctly

This remarkable Mercedes-Benz was offered - and sold - at the recent Bonhams Goodwood Revival sale in September. The buyer at that sale was unable to complete the purchase and it thus presents another opportunity to the many collectors who expressed an interest at Goodwood. The estimate of £75,000 - 95,000 remains the same and, apart from this disclosure, the catalogue description also remains the same.

"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 & Sports Car 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 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") 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 (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 saloons, 428 were Pullman limousines, and 59 were landaulettes.

Celebrity owners of the Mercedes-Benz 600 have included Elvis Presley, John Lennon, George Harrison, Jack Nicholson, Coco Chanel, Hugh Hefner, Ronnie Wood, Aristotle Onassis and Rowan Atkinson.

Finished in black with matching interior, this rare right-hand drive Grosser comes with numerous detailed invoices relating to extensive refurbishment carried out between 2010 and 2012, mostly issued by marque specialists Martin Cushway Engineering. The car is running well, with correctly working hydraulic system, and is presented in good condition. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Grosser with an event to be held at Mercedes Benz World on the 1st of October which this car will be eligible to attend. Offered with an owner's manual, engine parts list, and a V5C document.