1961 MERCEDES-BENZ (W189) 300D 'ADENAUER'

KEY FACTS

• A fantastic example of the elegant classic limousine, so-named as it was the model of choice for Konrad Adenauer, the first chancellor of West Germany.
• The 300D is powered by a 180hp fuel-injected 3.0-litre inline-six mated to a three-speed automatic transmission.
• This vehicle was originally owned by the US Navy, which used it as a chauffeured vehicle for an admiral at a base in Japan.
• It was acquired by the vendor 18 months ago, who imported it from Minnesota.
• The car was serviced in 2019 and has been kept in a private garage ever since, also benefiting from overhauled brakes and a new exhaust.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• Mercedes’ 300D was the flagship luxury tourer of its day, and was built with meticulous attention to detail. These W189-generation models are colloquially known as the ‘Adenauer’ after Konrad Adenauer employed six such vehicles in official state use.
• This car features optional power steering, plus a Becker Mexico stereo.
• It has complete underseal protection.
• The wheels have four new Continental tyres, but white-walled alternatives will also be supplied.
• Also included are the original owner’s manual, service book and tool kit.

CONDITION

• There is no known prior bodywork damage.
• The paintwork is thought to be mostly original, with a few more noticeable blemishes on the front end and wings, general light scratches, paint imperfections and swirls through the finish.
• A few larger scratches are visible on the passenger-rear wheel arch. Some light ‘patina’ and initial signs of corrosion is visible on some of the chrome body trims.
• Inside, the beige fabric upholstery has a few surface marks and general age-related wear, but no rips or tears.
• The steering wheel, switchgear, and smart wood trim has a slightly aged appearance, but all adding to the car’s highly original character.
• The speedometer, stereo and reverse light are currently inoperative, but there are no other known electrical faults.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Its most recent service was in 2019, where the engine oil was changed and the brakes were overhauled and fitted with a new master cylinder. It has been dry stored in a garage since then.
• A new exhaust and radiator have been fitted during the vendor's custodianship.

SUMMARY

The Mercedes-Benz 300D ‘Adenauer’ was at the pinnacle of luxury and technological development in its day, so it is perhaps unsurprising to learn that this car was initially used by the US Navy as an elegant limousine for an admiral. Boasting a very high level of expertise and attention to detail from the Mercedes factory, this 300D is understood to remain highly original, and has been kept in good condition.

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