Purchased new by Jack Nicholson
1972 Mercedes-Benz 600 Saloon

• The ultimate in motoring luxury in its day
• Short wheelbase saloon example
• Formerly part of the Petersen Automotive Museum collection
• Present ownership since September 2022

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. 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.

Many were sold to movie stars, and this beautiful saloon example of Mercedes-Benz's luxury flagship was purchased new from Hollywood Mercedes-Benz by the famous movie actor Jack Nicholson, who owned the car until he donated it to the Petersen Automotive Museum some years ago. In September 2022 the Petersen Automotive Museum offered the car for sale at Bonhams' auction at the Audrain Concours in Newport, Rhode Island (Lot 141) where it was purchased by the current vendor.

Today this Mercedes-Benz 600 presents in beautiful condition both inside and out, with much of the chrome and brightwork – and possibly the interior - remaining in well-preserved, original condition. The stately and iconic saloon bodywork is finished in striking Bordeaux red, while the interior is trimmed in Cognac leather. A sunroof and air conditioning is fitted, in addition to the many other powered amenities these cars came with. This stately motor car makes as much of a statement now as it did when new, and the '600' has deservedly become one of the most collectible of modern Mercedes-Benz automobiles.