If we could parade about in just one vehicle for the rest of our life, we reckon a fire truck would be very close to the top of our list. And a classic 60s example with an unburstable Mercedes-Benz powertrain? Sign us up.
As luck would have it, you could do just that. We’re delighted to present this marvellous Mercedes-Benz 710 – a genuine fire truck used in France – for sale. Completely unrestored and in original, patinated condition, it’s a window back to another time and the potential it offers is quite inspiring.
Whether the new owner wants to keep it just as it is, restore it to ‘as new’ or use it as the base for a conversion of some kind, we’re sure they’re going to have a whole lot of fun.
We just ask one thing – can we sound the siren please?
The History and Paperwork
First registered in May 1968
Genuine service vehicle used in France
French registration documents
Purchased by the vendor in April 2015 at 22,500Km
Always kept under cover
Serviced by Millau Mercedes-Benz dealership in December 2018 at 25,170Km
Unrestored and in original condition
26,570Km on the clock (five-figure odometer)
The Interior
Double cab, featuring seating for 10 – three up front and a further seven in the rear
Red vinyl and fabric upholstery to the front seats
We’re informed by the vendor that the front passenger seat has been refurbished
The two rows of seats in the rear are shaped wooden benches, one of which has a slight crack but is still very usable
Checkerplate flooring to the rear cab section
The rubber flooring in the driving compartment has perished somewhat
All of the switchgear and driving controls appears to be original and wears an appealing, natural level of wear, with lots of labels for the various features
We’re told that everything in the cabin still works and functions as it should
At the rear, there are a number of lockers and equipment racks
Overall, the interior has a warm, lived-in feel from years of use as a service vehicle
The Exterior
Classic red and white paintwork with ‘St Hippolyte Pompiers’ livery
Vintage road rally plaques mounted to the front
Blue emergency lights still present and correct
The bodywork looks straight and tidy, with some wear and tear from age and use
There are a number of areas of superficial corrosion dotted about the vehicle, but nothing that overly concerns us
We’re told that the exterior of the truck remains unrestored, with only one of the lockers having to have its hinge repaired previously
All of the glass elements, light lenses and other items of trim appear to be in good order, with light wear commensurate with the vehicle’s age
Underneath, the truck looks very straight, clean and tidy, with no signs of significant corrosion or damage
Single wheel front axle, double wheel rear axle
There is a spare wheel stored under the rear of the vehicle
The Mechanics
OM352 cast iron six-cylinder diesel engine, offering 100CV
Five-speed manual transmission
Rear-wheel drive
New batteries were fitted to the truck in June 2021
A full service and brake system overhaul were carried out in December 2018 at 25,170Km
The vendor reports no mechanical faults or issues at all
Summary
It’s a fire truck! What, you need more reasons to buy this? Well, it would make a tremendous centre-piece for any classic car show, or as a period support vehicle for classic rallies. Alternatively, it offers plenty of scope for conversion as a classic tow vehicle or a camper.
Or you could just enjoy it as is – after all, who doesn’t love a fire truck?
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.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
1968 Mercedes-Benz 710 Fire Truck
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