1960 Mercedes-Benz 300D For Sale in St Louis, MO, 2146376013 Tweet

The W189 Mercedes-Benz 300-series was regarded by many as the finest engineered and constructed automobile of its time. Early in production the 300 earned the nickname Adenauer from the German Chancellor who had no fewer than six in his fleet. Typically for Mercedes-Benz of the era the 300 was substantially strong and overbuilt. Revised and enhanced through several series the final iteration the W189 or 300d had several distinct features that set it apart from earlier models. The new longer hood gave the car a more graceful look while providing room for an updated version of Mercedes-Benzs 3-liter SOHC six-cylinder engine now fitted with Bosch fuel injection derived from the 300SL sports car. The wheelbase grew by four inches aligning the car with the likes of the Rolls Royce Silver Cloud and affording rear seat occupants plenty of additional legroom. 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.When it was new the 300d cost three times that of a similar Cadillac showing this was a serious automobile reserved for the wealthiest clientele.The chassis design was in line with contemporary Mercedes-Benz design including independent front and swing-axle rear suspension. The swing axle was well-proven but had some drawbacks mainly a propensity to suddenly change camber under load and upset the handling. The solution introduced on the 300d was a unique self-leveling device consisting of electric motors actuating jackscrews that moved an extra pair of torsion bars. Unlike later systems the 300ds leveling system was driver controllable. Larger brake drums and a new brake booster increased the power assist resulting in much improved stopping distances. With power steering now standard the 300d offered a much better driving experience than its earlier brethren.This 1960 300d is a superb example of a car that has never required a full restoration. The large body is very straight and solid showing evidence of one repaint in its original and attractive DB40 Black. As one should expect from an unrestored Adenauer the panel fit and finish is exemplary and the doors open and close with a satisfyingly vault-like feel. Mercedes-Benz used chrome-on-brass for much of the exterior brightwork meaning it has withstood the test of time beautifully.The wheels have been fitted with wide whitewall tires and are dressed with bright full chrome wheel covers.Inside the opulent cabin features largely original well-preserved cloth upholstery throughout with the exception of the front bench seating which has been reupholstered in the correct materials to match the rest of the interior. While the original carpet shows some minor signs of wear its a testament to the vehicles exceptional build quality and utilization. A Becker Europa AM/FM radio resides in the dash surrounded by extensive wood trim presented in very original condition heavily patinated yet completely intact and still delightfully attractive. It would almost be a shame to refinish the woodwork as it wears its age with such dignity.Under the hood lies a 3.0-liter inline six engine dressed with appropriate hose clamps and fittings. It shows signs of cleanliness and honesty indicating regular maintenance and care. The engine pulls smoothly through the gears via the four-speed manual transmission. This example has been equipped with a modern add-on air conditioning system for enhanced comfort and usability. Equipment includes the original jack spare wheel tool bag and original owners manual in both English and German (in the pouch) as well as an original service records handbook.Few motorcars of this era offer luxury in such a grand fashion whether travelling with the family or arriving for official state business. With loads of room and unbeatable comfort not to mention air conditioning this would make a fine choice for touring and driving events. Only 3077 similar cars were produced through early 1962 and few have survived in such wonderfully well-preserved condition with well-known long-term ownership. As when new this 300d Adenauer remains a very exclusive and highly desirable automobile.Offers welcome and trades consideredFor additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7758-1960-mercedes-benz-300d-sedan/