Istorie
Despite its enormous weight (2,268 kg) for the saloon (and 2,654kg for the Pullman), the 600 was no sluggard barge; it would top 200 km/h, accelerating to 100 km/h in approximately 10 seconds. Handling too was surprisingly nimble, with power steering, plenty of grip and brakes (big four wheel discs) that were beyond any reproach.
Full description
In 1953, Paul Bracq, the 600’s designer, graduated from the Ecole Boulle, the famous art and design school in Paris. In 1957, after a short stint in the military, he became chief of Mercedes-Benz’s advanced design studio in Sindelfingen. He’s credited with the 1960s “Pagoda” SL and the W108/109, W111, and W114/115 sedans.
With the 1961 600, Mercedes set out to build the world’s ultimate saloon with no regard to cost or compromise. Millionaires could choose the standard 126in (320cm) wheelbase, 18ft (5.5m) four-door 600. Heads of state had the Pullman, its wheelbase stretched to 153 in (389cm) and available with an optional six doors, extra optional seats and a glass division between front and rear compartments.
Both used a 6.3 litre fuel injected V8 engine producing 250hp, driving through a four speed automatic transmission. Independent suspension used air bags on all four wheels, powered by an under-bonnet pump, for a firm, comfortable ride. Seat adjustment, steering assistance and door locks were linked to a central hydraulic system.
Despite its enormous weight (2,268 kg) for the saloon (and 2,654kg for the Pullman), the 600 was no sluggard barge; it would top 200 km/h, accelerating to 100 km/h in approximately 10 seconds. Handling too was surprisingly nimble, with power steering, plenty of grip and brakes (big four wheel discs) that were beyond any reproach.
Hugely expensive and hand built in tiny numbers, the 600 stayed on the Mercedes price list until 1981 and had no effective replacement.
Apart from the Pope and governments, famous owners of 600 included celebrities such as Coco Chanel, Hugh Hefner, Elizabeth Taylor, John Lennon and more.
Notable dictators including Nicolae Ceausescu, Josip Broz Tito, Fidel Castro, Kim Il-Sung, Kim Jong-UN and African revolutionaries Idi Amin and Jomo Kenyatta all used the 600. Saddam Hussein also owned a long roof Landaulet 600.
This particular car has 95685 km on board
