Vehicle Description
Mercedes-Benz has always maintained a tradition of building a vast
array of vehicles ranging from basic transportation to magnificent,
technologically advanced luxury cars. For example, in the 1930's,
the 170 was popular among police and taxi drivers, while an
extremely wealthy individual could have a 100 mph 540K in any
number of coachbuilt configurations. But if you were more than just
your average wealthy customer, you may have stepped up to the 770K,
also known as the "Grosser Mercedes". These incredible 7.6 liter,
supercharged eight-cylinder monsters were reserved for heads of
state, military leaders - with owners including a pope and a
Japanese Emperor and featured some of the most� advanced
engineering ever seen on a pre-war automobile. During WWII,
Mercedes Benz factories were hit particularly hard and it took some
time to bounce back. But by the 1960s, their post-war recovery was
complete and the company recognized sufficient demand for another
ultra-luxurious limousine to take on the likes of the Cadillac
Series 75 Fleetwood and Rolls Royce Phantom. The 600-series was
born in 1963, known internally as the W100, reviving the "grosser"
moniker. Available in four-door short wheelbase or six-door, long
wheelbase Pullman configuration, the 600 was quite simply one of
the finest and most thoughtfully engineered and over-built cars in
history. Unlike a body-on-frame Cadillac or Rolls Royce, the 600
used advanced unitary construction that was so strong, the rear
roof could be cut off without the need for additional bracing. Of
course, options were limited to the imagination and budget of the
buyer and 600s are often equipped with front and rear air
conditioning, separate stereo systems, refrigerators, even
television and telephones. Power was via an all-new M100 6.0 liter
V8 with Bosch fuel injection, developed specifically for the 600.
It produced 250 hp and a whopping 370 ft-lbs of torque, enough to
allow the 6,100lb Merc to hang with a contemporary Porsche 911T in
a straight line. A complex but ingenious hydraulic system operating
at 150-bar (2,176 psi) powered the suspension as well as the window
lifts, power seats, sunroof, and even the trunk closure. The 600
quickly became the ultimate symbol of power and prestige; favored
by government officials, royalty, movie stars, dictators and cult
leaders alike. The 600 remained in very limited production from
1964-1981 with total of 2,677 built in all configurations. Of the
600 family, the sleeper of the group is the short-wheelbase
four-door sedan, as presented here. Performance was surprisingly
brisk for such a large machine, and in spite of their limousine
roots they make surprisingly good driver's cars thanks to that
sophisticated suspension and torque-laden 6.3 liter M100 V8. This
1969 model presents in very handsome and understated dark,
non-metallic green over a Cognac interior. It presents in very tidy
overall condition, having been well maintained in very nice running
order. Importantly, the body is very straight with consistent,
precise factory panel gaps and attractive paintwork. Like the
bodywork, the chrome is in similarly good condition and it rides on
a set of correct wheels with color keyed wheel covers and blackwall
tires. These big 600 sedans have spectacular road presence,
especially when presented in a dark color such as this, and the
driving experience is thoroughly modern. The engine bay presents
well showing plenty of signs of maintenance - a critical
consideration on any 600. The lovely and luxurious interior is
trimmed in Cognac leather with matching carpet. The leather is in
very good condition, handsome and inviting. The cabin is trimmed in
extensive wood work on the dash, door caps and windscreen frames
which all presents well, with some minor cracking apparent on the
dash top, though the fascia wood remains very clean. A proper
Becker Grand Prix radio resides in the dash, and this example is
optioned with the refrigerated console and privacy curtains for the
rear quarter windows. The big, grand 600 is one of the ultimate
luxury cars of the post-war era. Its unrivaled luxury and
stunningly strong performance made it the choice for dictators,
heads of state and captains of industry alike. This short-wheelbase
version delivers an excellent drive in a package that is more
approachable than the long-wheelbase Pullman, and of course with
swifter acceleration and easier handling. With any 600, maintenance
and care are of utmost importance. This example has benefited from
regular use and care, with records going back to the 1990s. It has
recently been treated to an "E" service, including a conversion to
optic distributor pickup replacing the points. Shown at the 2012
Greystone Mansion Concours, this attractive and usable 600 sedan is
ready for its next keeper to enjoy the fantastic performance and
exquisite quality that only the Grosser Mercedes can provide.