1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 Saloon

• The ultimate in motoring luxury in its day
• Short wheelbase saloon example
• Left-hand drive
• Recent extensive servicing and refurbishment (bills available)

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.

Little is known about this early left-hand drive example other than it was originally owned by a Dutch industrialist and has at some time been restored. The current vendor purchased the car from Cardock Classics, a Mercedes Classic specialist in Dublin, Ireland; it was the owner's daily driver. In the past 18 months the car has benefited from considerable expenditure on extensive servicing and recommissioning, there being two detailed invoices on file from Just Historic Cars of St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex totalling over £12,500 (perusal recommended). Works carried out have included re-chroming the front grille; restoring the wood inlay dashboard; overhauling the hydraulic system; changing the engine oil and filter; fitting a new battery; and sending various parts to Germany for specialist refurbishment prior to refitting. Offered with a V5C Registration Certificate.