To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' The
Elkhart Collection event, 23 - 24 October 2020.
Estimate:
$400,000 - $600,000
- A mechanically upgraded example of one of the great post-war
classics
- Built using an original 300 S body, chassis frame, rear end,
and suspension
- Modern Mercedes-Benz M104 engine and five-speed
transmission
- A wonderful combination of classic design and contemporary
engineering
- An exceptional tour car; veteran of the Holy Land 1000
Please note that this vehicle is titled by a Colorado state
assigned VIN.
Introduced in April 1951 at the first-ever Frankfurt Motor Show,
the 300 was to be the crown jewel in the post-war Mercedes-Benz
crown. Featuring an independent suspension, it provided outstanding
comfort, even when cruising at a maximum speed of 100 mph. The 300
was initially offered in four-door cabriolet and sedan models on
the W186 chassis; however, the shorter and sportier W188 chassis
would also be used to provide customers with cabriolet, coupe, and
roadster versions.
In 1955 the engineers upgraded the engine using the Bosch
fuel-injection system introduced on the 300 SL. With the new
engine, denoted on the rear bumper by Einspritzmotor (fuel-injected
engine), the 300 Sc was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in
September 1955. Only a few other trim changes, including chromed
cooling vents and trim about each fender, perforated chromed disc
wheels, and enlarged turn signals, distinguished the new model.
However, even the impeccable craftsmanship and traditional lines
were not enough to overcome potential buyers' reluctance to accept
the lack of air-conditioning, automatic transmission, and power
amenities common in competitive luxury cars. As such, only a total
of 216 coupes, 203 cabriolets, and 141 roadsters were produced of
the 300 S and fewer yet of the fuel-injected 300 Sc.
Utilizing what is believed to be an original chassis and body, the
300 S offered here appears as it would have at Daimler-Benz in
1953, though with some of the added flair of the later 300 Sc.
Underneath, however, is something quite different and rather
remarkable. The hood opens to reveal a modern Mercedes-Benz M104
fuel-injected inline six-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed
manual transmission. Coping with the additional power created by
this engine, power-assisted front disc brakes were installed, and
radial tires have been fitted.
Not enough can be said for the quality of paintwork and chrome,
obviously both professionally done to the highest standard. The car
retains correct Bosch headlight lenses and bezels, and a proper
German canvas top has been fitted, along with a
complementary-colored boot.
Great care was taken to ensure that the interior would appear
virtually "stock" and correct, including retaining the traditional
handsome, heavy polished woodwork, gauges, and switchgear, and a
period radio face, as well as shaded visors, full leather
upholstery, and Wilton wool carpeting. As with the original car,
there is a small rear seat, accommodating either children or, with
the cushion folded, additional luggage. The speakers in the kick
panels have period-correct bezels, and the vents for the
air-conditioning system are very cleverly integrated into the
windshield posts, rather than being tucked under the dash as in
less carefully thought-out installations. Even the transmission is
shifted via a column lever, as original, completing the
preservation of the 1950s look and feel.
During its time in the Elkhart Collection, this impressive
Mercedes-Benz, a combination of the best in old and new technology,
has been utilized for the Holy Land 1000 tour of Israel. It would
undoubtedly be an entertaining choice for any number of such events
around the world. The original 300 S was no sheep; perhaps this car
could now be considered a wolf in coyotes' clothing?To view this
car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit
the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/el20.