Highlights
- An incredibly rare example, one of only 144 made in 1957
- Fully restored vehicle in a diligently cared for and fully road-worthy condition
- Retaining all its original charm, even down to the rear central drinks cabinet
- Gorgeous colour combination and specification
- Total restoration cost: 181.430,00 €
- Offered at a fraction of that price!
The Appeal
The Mercedes Benz 300d ( the “d” having nothing to do with later diesel engined Benzes) arrived late in 1957, in this W189 guise. This is one of the earliest produced, appearing to be one of just 144 built in 1957. The W189 was a longer and evolved version of the W186 offering improved mechanicals but, crucially, an additional 4 inches of wheelbase.
This extra length gave the 300d even more rear space than its main rival, the Rolls Royce Silver Cloud. This feature helped endear the car to politicians and heads of state. Foremost amongst these luminaries was Kondrad Adenauer, then Chancellor of Germany, who enjoyed a fleet of six W189s, favouring them as his “parade cars.” The ability to fully retract the side windows and remove the rear quarter lights to maximise visibility being just one of his favourite features of the car.
The History and Paperwork
- One of just 144 W189s built in 1957
- Believed to be the 48th car to leave the factory, but certainly an early model
- Believed to have been one of Konrad Adenauer’s fleet of six W189’s however this is unconfirmed
- Registered in the Netherlands in 1983
- The current owner acquired the car in Germany in 2006
- Subsequently, the car underwent a full and thorough restoration
- The restoration was undertaken by a number of specialist European restorers
- Since restoration the car has been stored and maintained by the Engine Group in Prague
- It has also been exhibited at the Pop Centre in Prague
- During this period the car has been regularly maintained by a Mercedes Benz mechanic
- A photographic record of the thorough restoration is on hand for the new owner
The Interior
- Fully retrimmed in Hell Grau leather (DB code 995)
- Door cards, carpets and headlining in restored condition
- Original rear drinks holder as favoured by Adenauer
It’s easy to see why the W189 became associated with various titans of business and politics who would certainly feel entirely at home in the rear cabin of this car. The rear bench would easily accommodate three adults in great comfort. This car, however, is configured to suit two VIPs, allowing the use of the central folding armrest central drinks console.
The woollen carpets are bound in leather for added luxury and durability and the door cards are leather trimmed, furnished with chrome door furniture and capped with walnut.
Interestingly, he rear quarter lights can be removed and the side windows retract fully to create a fully open sided configuration, allowing the important occupants to see and be seen.
The commodious front seats are wide, with a low transmission tunnel and column-mounted gear shifter allowing them to almost meet in the middle. This lack of central console lends the front cabin a pleasingly roomy ambiance.
The dashboard is finished in walnut veneer — said to be the original wood —and adorned with splashes of chrome. The white on black VDO speedometer dominates the instrument binnacle with supplementary gauges arranged below it. Various switches and levers are housed along a machined metal panel, which extends across the full width of the dash.
A charming, original Becker Europa push button radio is fitted. This has reportedly been restored, and is understood to now be in a fully working condition. The large boot houses the spare wheel, — properly fastened with the original strap — as well as wicker picnic basket and numerous spare parts and tools.
The Exterior
- Beautifully finished in Hell Blau (DB code 356)
- Imposing Mercedes radiator grille and parade flags
- Chassis fully restored by EKORA
Despite being launched towards the end of the 1950s, the W189 retains the late 1940’s, early 1950’s look of its predecessor. This consists of a high bonnet line fronted by the signature deep Mercedes Benz grill topped with the prominent three-pointed star emblem.
The prominent front wings house large round headlights, indicators, and twin external chrome horns. A prominent chromed front bumper with overriders wraps around each corner. The yellow-lensed driving lights and Mercedes monogrammed, chrome flag poles complete the dramatic look. The wing flags are reportedly original items, used by Konrad Adenauer.
The long boot sweeps down to the rear bumper and is adorned with a large, chromed three pointed star and the accompanying model designation. The side profile makes it obvious that this is a long car, designed with limousine duties in mind.
The car rides on steel wheels, concealed under chromed hub caps with the obligatory three pointed star. Chrome trim pieces surround the windows and chromed rub strips run the length of the car. The tyres are said to be brand new and unused.
There are a few minor blemishes here and there but nothing out of the ordinary for a car of this period. Certainly, nothing detracts from the impressive appearance and presence of this amazing survivor.
The Mechanics
- M186 straight-six petrol engine
- Twin carburettors, originally rated at over 115 hp
- Rare 4 speed manual example
This car’s 3.0L single overhead camshaft engine features many innovations such as deep water jackets, oversized valves, and thermostatically controlled oil cooling. It is the same unit as used in the iconic 300SL sports car of the period.
As shown in the accompanying photographs the restoration, it has enjoyed a full mechanical refurbishment and has received regular maintenance by Engine Group of Prague. It has been attended to by a specialist Mercedes-Benz mechanic who attests to the car being in a fully road worthy condition.
This 300d car has had its twin downdraught Solex carburettors tuned for optimum starting and tick over. A new heavy-duty Exide battery has also been fitted. The under bonnet presentation of the car if first class as well.
The W189 carried forward the innovative and robust “X-frame” chassis of its predecessor. This has been fully treated and finished to protect the longevity of this rare luxury express.
Summary
Despite its conservative styling, the W189 was really a cutting-edge saloon with capabilities at least the match of any of the best on offer from Rolls Royce or Bentley. Much beloved by the German political elite, not only for their space and comfort but also as exemplars of the engineering prowess of their country at the time.
This is a fine example indeed. An early production model with the correct serial numbers by way of provenance. It has enjoyed a fine restoration and fastidious maintenance since. It is fully road worthy and will be almost guaranteed to be admired and adored by all those lucky enough to see it, let alone travel in it. A very rare ownership opportunity and one, surely, not to be missed.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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