-One of only 273 RHD examples built of all 600 types in 18 years of production.

-Exceptional original specification inc. sunroof, leather, A/C and attractive colour scheme.

-A later example incorporating worthwhile factory timeline upgrades/ developments.

-Believed 56,000 miles from new

-Recent re-commissioning/overhaul work technically.

In 1963 the all-new 600 model was launched at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. Representing the very best of Mercedes-Benz automotive engineering and technology, the 600 featured a fuel-injected overhead camshaft 6.3 litre V8 engine, air suspension with variable ride control, all-round disc brakes, power steering and central locking, not to mention a high-pressure oil system for all sorts of adjustments and controls. Over half a century later these cars still represent an ultimate. Even the 21st. Century Maybach, a brand re-invented by Mercedes to be the best of the best, cannot approach the 600 "Grosser" for sheer presence. Due to its immense cachet, the 600 is more "filmic" than any other car made. The model has enjoyed cameo roles in more movies from 1963 to the present than any other. As is widely publicised, the list of owners is like a who's-who in itself.

Only 2,677 LHD and RHD examples were made, of which 2,190 were four-door saloons, 428 were Pullman limousines and 59 were Landaulets. This 600 Short Wheel Base Limousine represents something of a "sweet spot" specification-wise when ordered new.

It was first registered to Barclay Hotels Ltd of 2 Hyde Park Place, London, in April 1971. We can only assume that the company required a luxurious car to ferry around its important guests, and this car would certainly have fitted the bill. To put this into perspective, the 600 cost between 25 and 30 percent more than the equivalent new Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow.

What attracted us to this 600 when we first saw it was its remarkable originality and potential. It is an unmolested, "honest" car. Much of the paintwork, brightwork, woodwork and the entire interior are original from 1971.

The team here have taken this lovely largely unspoilt "canvas" and turned it into the great 600 we have now. The complexity of these cars is simply staggering; even the lowly water pump on the engine is a highly complex bit of kit, with a turbine thermostatically controlled by circulating engine oil governing the fan. Many components on a 600 are like this. Here is a brief list of recent works done in our workshop:-

-Overhaul of air suspension inc. 4x airbags, all height control valves and main valve block. Adjust ride heights to factory specifications.

-Overhaul of water pump and full drivebelt replacement.

-Service and adjustment of "comfort hydraulic" system parts as needed.

-Overhaul of steering box.

-Full engine and injection service and set-up. Starts "on the button" as it should.

So many 600's are huge bills waiting to happen, but when they are running properly as this one is, they are a marvel to drive and ride in. Due to its originality, this car is not in 100% Concours condition; the leather seats for example have no tears or creases even after 45 years, but are not freshly restored. If you want a 600 with much correctly focussed recent work where it counts on these cars, not just a shiny paint job, then this is the car for you.