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32 of 149 lots
Lot 32
1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 D Adenauer
Estimate:
$75,000 - $100,000
Starting bid:
$38,000
Sold for
$55,000
Live Auction
Pebble Beach 2018
Description
Chassis: 189.010-8500261
Engine: 189.980-8500892

Addendum
*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1958 and by its engine number.

Car Highlights
US-Specification Example with Automatic Transmission and Power Steering
Desirable Fuel-Injected Model
Accompanied by Books, Tools, and Extensive Documentation
Finished in Original and Attractive Medium Red over Beige Color Scheme
Referred to in Period as “The Most Elegant Motorcar in the World”

Technical Specs
2,996 CC SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection
160 BHP at 5,500 RPM
3-Speed Borg-Warner Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Front Independent Suspension with Coil Springs
Rear Swing-Axle Suspension with Coil Springs

Built by the company’s most experienced craftsmen, the Mercedes-Benz W189 300 D “Adenauer” was advertised as “The Most Elegant Motorcar in the World” and derived its nickname from Konrad Adenauer, the first chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, who had no fewer than six in his fleet. The 300 D’s new chassis code reflected an updated and fuel-injected version of the Mercedes-Benz three-liter SOHC six-cylinder engine, plus a distinctive pillarless hardtop design. Other enhancements, such as a longer wheelbase, new brake booster, and self-leveling suspension system, imparted the 300 D with a driving experience superior to its predecessors.

This 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 D Adenauer sedan is a US-specification model equipped with a three-speed automatic transmission and desirable power steering. Finished in its original color scheme of Medium Red (DB 516) over a beige leather interior, this car underwent a cosmetic restoration after its acquisition by The Brumos Collection in the 1990s. Entered at the inaugural Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 1996, the Adenauer was awarded the Amelia Award for the Most Outstanding Postwar Mercedes-Benz. It is accompanied at sale by books, tools, and jack, as well as extensive documentation including original owner paperwork, correspondence, and maintenance records. Recently serviced, including attention to the braking system, this rarely seen model represents an outstanding example of the Mercedes-Benz luxury flagship of the 1950s.