The unveiling of the Mercedes-Benz Type 600 (W100) at the Frankfurt IAA in September 1963 was nothing short of sensational. Conceived as the ultimate prestige vehicle, designed to meet the most discerning demands, this new flagship model boasted a range of standard technical innovations that were unparalleled and represented the pinnacle of automotive engineering at the time.
Powering the 600 was Daimler-Benz’s first-ever V8 injection engine. This formidable powerplant, displacing 6.3 liters, generated a maximum output of 250 horsepower and a peak torque of 51 mkg. Mated to a standard automatic transmission, this engine propelled the nearly two-and-a-half-ton Mercedes-Benz 600 to sports car-like performance. It could exceed 205 km/h (127 mph) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 10 seconds.
Driving safety was paramount, ensured by features like shock absorbers adjustable from the steering column while driving and a dual-circuit braking system with air pressure assistance. Disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels, with the front wheels featuring twin brake calipers for enhanced stopping power. The comprehensive standard equipment of the Mercedes-Benz 600 W100, which included air suspension, power steering, and central locking, also incorporated an electronically controlled heating and ventilation system, maximizing both operational and driving comfort.
A unique comfort hydraulic system automated numerous functions within the Mercedes-Benz 600. This innovative system managed the horizontal and vertical adjustment of the front seats, the backrest angle, the longitudinal adjustment of the rear bench seat, and the opening and closing of the car doors, trunk lid, and optional sliding roof, as well as the operation of the side windows.
Series production of this “Grand Mercedes” commenced in September 1964. Beyond the five- to six-seater sedan with a 3200 mm wheelbase, Mercedes-Benz offered three seven- to eight-seat Pullman variants with an extended 3900 mm wheelbase. These included a four-door Pullman sedan with rear seats in a face-to-face configuration, a six-door Pullman limousine with a rear bench seat and additional forward-facing folding seats, and the prestigious Pullman Landaulet.
The Pullman Landaulet itself came in four distinct versions. The standard variant featured four doors, rear seats in a vis-à-vis arrangement, and a convertible top extending to the front edge of the rear doors. A six-door version, equipped with a rear bench seat and supplementary forward-facing folding seats, was available as a special order. In this six-door configuration, mirroring the six-door Pullman sedan, the middle doors could be specified without door handles. Both four-door and six-door Landaulets could be optionally equipped with an elongated hood extending to the center wall, further enhancing their stately appearance upon special request.
The vast array of body styles was just the beginning of the customization options available for the Mercedes-Benz W100 600. Customers could specify virtually any paint finish, interior trim, and special features, ensuring that, particularly with the Pullman limousines and Landaulets, it’s rare to find two identical examples.
Featured Vehicle: A Unique Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Restoration
The specific Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman presented here was originally delivered to Lebanon in 1975, finished in Mercedes-Benz 172 (anthracite gray metallic) with equipment variant 205 (blue leather interior). Mercedes-Benz Classic acquired this remarkable vehicle in Malaga in February 2007, where it had resided since 1997.
Upon its acquisition in 2007, Mercedes-Benz Classic embarked on an unprecedented restoration project. At the behest of a discerning customer, the vehicle was completely disassembled. The aim was to create a unique synthesis of the classic Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman heritage and the contemporary comfort found in the then-current Maybach series.
The body of the 600 Pullman underwent a complete rebuild before being refinished in a stunning mother-of-pearl paint by Mercedes-Benz in Untertürkheim. The powertrain, encompassing the engine, gearbox, and axles, was thoroughly overhauled, and the chassis was renewed, ensuring the vehicle’s longevity for decades to come.
The interior of this Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman is truly bespoke, seamlessly blending historical elements with modern luxury. Various components were custom-made or sourced from the Maybach series, most notably the Maybach glass roof. The external panorama roof was specifically crafted to match the roofline and shape of the 600 Pullman, while the inner glass pane was adopted from the Maybach series. Like the partition separating the driver’s compartment from the rear seats, this glass roof can be transformed into frosted glass at the touch of a button, offering enhanced privacy.
A flat screen, taken from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 Pullman and powered by Alpine technology, provides both analog and digital (DVBT) television reception. Furthermore, two independent navigation systems, enabling precise location tracking even in the rear compartment, were integrated. A laptop interface and DVD player are also included in the center console. The entire entertainment system is managed via a data bus located in the trunk.
Rear passenger comfort is prioritized with two original, hydraulically adjustable seats, styled to echo the Maybach series. An original cool box, along with folding tables and champagne flute holders from Maybach, are positioned between the seats. For occasions requiring additional passenger capacity, two extra seats are available, bringing the total to six occupants. Illuminated vanity mirrors for the driver and front passenger are fitted in the front compartment. The air conditioning system has been optimized to ensure comfortable driving even in hot climates. An intercom system from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 Pullman facilitates communication between the driver and passengers. To aid in maneuvering this substantial vehicle, a reversing camera and a front camera have been installed.
Adding a touch of exquisite detail, Swarovski diamonds adorn the piping on the door sills, both front and rear. The door entries are embellished with illuminated Mercedes-Benz lettering on stainless steel panels. The vehicle retains standard brackets on the front fenders for ceremonial flags.
This meticulously restored Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman stands as a testament to the dedication and precision of Mercedes-Benz Classic. No comparable vehicle has been restored with such comprehensive effort and attention to detail. Our sales team is available to address any inquiries you may have. Please note that vehicle viewings are generally by appointment only.
