The 300 series, designed by Hermann Ahrens, marked a very important line of vehicles for Mercedes-Benz, as they were the first all-new models produced by the company after the end of World War II. The four-door version of this imposing, powerful car was quickly nicknamed “Adenauer” because six custom examples of the 300 saw use by the chancellor of Germany at the time, Konrad Adenauer. Expensive as they were expansive, they were often seen ferrying politicians and celebrities and were acquired by captains of industry and other wealthy individuals. As such, the 300 Adenauer symbolized the success of their owners.

Most rare of the early 300s are the four-door convertible Cabriolet D models, which featured construction on par with the legendary pre-war 500 K and 540 Ks, including a beautifully engineered, landau bar–assisted cabriolet top; a sumptuous, leather-swathed interior that could easily carry six persons; and trim of chrome-plated solid brass and beautiful hardwoods. Between late 1951 and the summer of 1955, only 591 Cabriolet Ds were hand-built to order at Stuttgart.

The Cabriolet D offered here is the recipient of a high-quality older restoration. The paint remains in good condition throughout, with only minor blemishes. The rubber seals are in good condition while much of the brightwork appears to be well-preserved original finishes. Underneath is very clean with no corrosion and appears to have been finished to a very high standard when it was restored, with only minor soiling from driving evident. The exhaust system appears to be new and hardly used. Most recently, the brakes were rebuilt by RM Auto Restoration, with new wheel cylinders, linkages, and master cylinder.

Within, the rich leather interior is very presentable with only light stretching, with the driver facing a Becker Nürburg radio and seated under a properly fitted cloth top. Attention to detail is evident throughout in the Bosch fog lights, which have proper and correct lenses. The trunk contains a three-piece set of original Karl Baisch fitted luggage, which still includes the original accessory clothes hangers!

Offered with its top boot and matching back, jack, and wheel wrench, this Cabriolet D would be a sumptuous addition to any Mercedes-Benz collection, carrying friends and family in high style and supreme comfort.