In the 1950’s, the Mercedes-Benz lineup was vast and diverse with a range that included everything from buses and trucks to the 300SL sports car. But Mercedes was still in recovery mode after the war; and even though the 300SL was a highly advanced car, it was not a clean-sheet design. Many of the famous SL’s components were courtesy of the flagship 300 sedan, produced from 1951-1962. The W189 300d was the final evolution of what became known as the “Adenauer” sedan, named so for the German Chancellor, Dr. Konrad Adenauer who famously had six of these magnificent automobiles in his personal fleet. The 300d improved on prior versions with a freshened body design that was wider all around with an attractive flat roof and extended rear quarter panels. The three-liter inline six was updated with an 8.5:1 compression ratio and Bosch fuel injection adapted from the 300SL. The advanced engine was mated to a three speed automatic transmission. Of course, luxurious equipment abounded and the 300d boasted a wheelbase that was longer than the comparable Rolls Royce Silver Cloud LWB. One notable characteristic was rear quarter windows that could be removed, making the 300d an elegant and airy pillarless sedan from the vent windows back. The benefit of years of development and styling tweaks, the 300d Adenauer sedans are highly sought after by collectors today.

This 1959 300d is a highly desirable six-window pillarless sedan. It is presented in very good, solid unrestored condition, ready to be enjoyed as-is. Mechanically sound, it runs and drives well, and shows no evidence of structural issues or rust. The black paint is serviceable and presentable and exterior chrome trim is complete and in fair condition.

Under the hood lies the original 3.0 liter inline six which is clean and honest, showing signs of regular maintenance and care. The important original Bosch fuel injection system is present and functional, as is the original automatic transmission. Inside, newer red upholstery is in very order with good red carpets and an abundance of original chrome details. The wood trim is complete and fair. There is no evidence of delamination so it could easily be preserved and enjoyed as-is, or refinished to a higher standard. The signature removable quarter windows are still intact, as are the original storage bags which are so often lost on these cars. This example also features an add-on air conditioning system for a touch more comfort and usability.

This big Mercedes sedan is a highly desirable and usable classic that would serve well in its current original condition or as a candidate for restoration. Drive it as is and enjoy the solid original build quality, or restore it to a high standard. Either way, this 300d Adenauer sedan is stout, imposing and beautiful; one of the finest and best engineered luxury cars of its time.