The name Pullman resonates with opulence, spaciousness, and unparalleled comfort, a legacy spanning over 150 years. From revolutionizing railway travel with luxurious sleeper cars to crafting bespoke automobile bodies, George Mortimer Pullman established the gold standard for stylish travel. Mercedes-Benz recognized and admired Pullman’s dedication to luxury, leading to a collaboration where Pullman created ultra-exclusive, coachbuilt versions of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the 1920s and 30s. This marked the beginning of a enduring relationship, the spirit of which continues to this day.
In 1963, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 600 series (W-100), a model also known as the Grosse Mercedes (Grand Mercedes) or simply, The Grosser. This vehicle redefined the luxury limousine category with the same impact that the Porsche 911 had on sports cars. The world had never witnessed a car so imposing, so refined, and so lavishly appointed. Cost was no object in its creation. Each of the 2,677 units was meticulously hand-assembled by master craftsmen to the highest possible standards, often incorporating unique, custom features tailored for some of the most influential figures globally. Despite being the most expensive production car of its era, the price tag did not deter discerning buyers. It quickly became the vehicle of choice for heads of state, royalty, A-list celebrities, and even notorious dictators. The prestigious list of owners included figures like The Pope, John Lennon, King Khalid of Saudi Arabia, Saddam Hussein, Kim Jong-il, and Mao Zedong. Even the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, traveled in a Pullman Mercedes!
The Grosser was offered in two primary configurations: the Saloons (short wheelbase) and the Pullmans (long wheelbase). Among the Pullman variants, the Landaulets stood out, featuring convertible tops that allowed passengers to be visible during state occasions, such as military parades. A highly advanced hydraulic system, operating at a pressure of 2,000 psi, powered a multitude of features with remarkable silence, from window operation to door locking mechanisms. Furthermore, its air suspension delivered an exceptionally smooth ride, often likened to gliding in a modern, luxurious railcar. This commitment to passenger comfort was paramount in the design of the 1965 Mercedes-Benz.
The specific vehicle highlighted here is a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 LWB Pullman, Chassis #1001412000165. It was originally delivered to Automotive Limited in Hong Kong, China, on February 17th, 1965. This company had close ties to Zung Fu, the official Mercedes-Benz dealer for Hong Kong and China, established in 1938. In 1965, Hong Kong was a vibrant trading hub under British rule, serving as the primary gateway for China’s foreign imports. This particular Grosser was sold new to Chen Yi, a prominent military commander, spokesperson for Chairman Mao Zedong, and one of the ten founding fathers of modern China. Chen Yi’s history is deeply intertwined with the 20th century Chinese political landscape. During his time in Paris in 1919, he crossed paths with Deng Xiaoping, later recognized as the Architect of Modern China, who was then working at a Renault factory’s labor union. Upon returning to China in 1922, after being expelled for his participation in a protest, Chen Yi joined the Communist Party. His ascent was rapid, becoming the first Mayor of Shanghai in 1949, followed by promotions to Vice Premier in 1954 and ultimately Foreign Minister in 1958. A highly influential and widely traveled statesman, Chen Yi was often recognized by his signature white suit and sunglasses during international visits. His significant role on the global stage was underscored by his appearance on the cover of TIME Magazine (February 26, 1965 edition) under the headline “The Enemy in Asia – Red China’s Foreign Minister Chen Yi”.
Upon its arrival in Hong Kong, Chen Yi’s Grosser was immediately transported by train to Shanghai. Once there, it served as Chen Yi’s official state car and was also reportedly used by Mao Zedong during his visits to Shanghai. However, the Cultural Revolution, a tumultuous period in Chinese history, erupted just over a year later. Chen Yi faced accusations of disloyalty and was investigated starting in February 1967. Although eventually exonerated and reinstated in 1969, his Grosser was transferred to the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), one of China’s “Big Four” state-owned automakers. The circumstances surrounding the Chinese government’s acquisition of this Grosser remain debated. Was it a clandestine gift from the West German government as a goodwill gesture to initiate trade talks? Or did the Chinese government procure it with the intention of reverse-engineering one of the world’s most technologically advanced automobiles to aid in the development of their own luxury vehicles?
According to historical accounts, this 1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman reportedly served as a blueprint for the design and manufacturing of the Hongqi (Red Flag), China’s first luxury limousine, exclusively used by high-ranking government officials. During the Cultural Revolution, the Grosser was placed in long-term storage, remaining hidden until its rediscovery in the 1990s by Hans Luwich, a German engineer working for Volkswagen Shanghai (a SAIC subsidiary). Luwich acquired the car and exported it to Germany in 1993. It subsequently gained recognition when featured in Autobild, a leading German automotive magazine. Prior to the current owner’s acquisition in 2014, a collector in the Netherlands purchased the car from Luwich. The current owner then brought the car back to Hong Kong before shipping it to the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Los Angeles in the summer of 2018 for a comprehensive service.
Today, this remarkable 1965 Mercedes-Benz remains in highly original, unrestored condition, exhibiting a light patina that speaks to its rich history. The opportunity to acquire any Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman is exceptionally rare. However, to own one with such a captivating history, intertwined with Sino-German diplomacy and Cold War narratives, is truly an extraordinary and once-in-a-lifetime prospect for discerning collectors and automotive historians alike.
