For Sale: 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 in Saint Louis, Missouri

The grand and imposing 300 series was a landmark automobile for Mercedes Benz, not because it was one of the finest machines they ever built, or that it became the transport of choice for heads of state and captains of industry, but because it was the first totally new car to be produced by the Stuttgart company since the end of World War II. It is difficult to imagine a more appropriate machine with which to make a comeback statement.
The W186 made its debut at the Frankfurt motor show in April of 1951, with production commencing in November of the same year. It was initially available as a four-door limousine and a four-door open cabriolet. The sweeping Hermann Ahrens-design body sat upon a robust X-frame chassis. It was powered by a newly developed 3.0L overhead cam, aluminum headM186 straight-6 that was mated to a 4-speed all-synchromesh manual gearbox. The engine produced 115hp using twin downdraft Solex carburetors and an innovative diagonal head-to-block joint that allowed for oversized intake and exhaust valves. The engine's design provided reliability under prolonged hard use with careful attention paid to the cooling system and oiling systems. It even had a thermostatically controlled oil cooler to ensure quick warming and optimal operation in tough conditions. The engine was so well constructed that it stayed in production until 1967. Variations of the M186 power plant were developed and went on to be used in the 300 S/300 SC Gran Tourer and eventually the iconic 300SL. The car's outstanding build quality made it choice for royalty and heads of state, which included such figures as the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Konrad Adenauer in whose honor the car would come to be referred to as simply "an Adenauer."
In comparison to the hardtop, the rarest of the early300 modelswas the four-door Cabriolet D, as is presented here. From the 1951 model year through 1955, over 6,000 hardtop cars were built. In that same period, only 591 four-door Cabriolet D were produced. This rare Cabriolet D is one of what is thought to be less than 200 convertible models built during 1953.
Our featured 300 is simply the finest we have ever come across. This recipient of a complete nut-and-bolt restoration some years back that executed with meticulous attention to detail. It has beautifully finished in Pearl Green with a Dark Green Haartz cloth top, rendering it undeniably stunning. Proudly sitting on a set of proper bias-ply white wall tires with correct body-color wheel covers, every aspect was carefully considered during the restoration process down to the proper hose clamps. The big 3-liter straight-six engine has also been accurately restored and detailed and runs superbly. Behind the engine lies a four-speed manual gearbox, which proves to be a joy to use once one becomes accustomed to the column-operated shifter!
The meticulous restoration continues into the interior, with beautiful light tan leather upholstery complemented by dark green stitching. The top and boot are crafted from gorgeous Haartz cloth, while the wood, carpet, and chrome maintain their original quality. This vehicle still houses the original Becker-N�rburg radio, encased in a refined walnut wood panel dash. The chrome-accented instruments and center-mounted VDO analog clock retain their pristine appearance, reminiscent of the showroom floor. Additionally, this 300 includes the original Karl Baisch 'his and hers' luggage set, neatly stowed in the trunk alongside the two spare tires. Moreover, it includes the original Mercedes-Benz Type 300 Instruction Manual, Catalog A Booklet, and Service Book.
Given their complexity, many of these great cars are restored and left to sit. But they are incredibly robust and a real joy to experience on the road, particularly with that massive convertible top folded. This is an absolutely beautiful motorcar that will be welcome at any concours event and will reward all those who get to experience it on the go.

Offers welcome and trades considered