When it launched in 1957, the Mercedes-Benz 300d—chassis code W189—replaced the 300c (W186) as the German automaker’s flagship luxury sedan. Engineered and built to the highest possible standards, it was on par in both size and appointments with Rolls-Royce’s contemporary Silver Cloud. Although favored by dignitaries and offering a variety of options to coddle rear occupants, the 300d was also a true driver’s car. After all, it shared DNA with the stellar 300 SL “gullwing” coupe, including its rigid chassis design, suspension componentry, and excellent M186 inline six-cylinder engine.

The chassis employed Mercedes-Benz’s familiar x-shaped steel-tube frame with the wheelbase extended by four inches over that of the preceding 300c to increase rear legroom. The sophisticated suspension was fully independent and featured a driver-adjustable, rear, load-leveling function. A pedal-operated lubrication system greased friction points in the chassis to preserve the quiet ride. The robust 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine featured Bosch mechanical fuel injection and produced a claimed 178 horsepower, slightly higher output than that of the 300 SL. It was paired with a three-speed Barg-Warner automatic transmission.

Only 3,073 300d Saloons and 136 300d Cabriolets were produced from 1957 through 1962. Their limited production, lofty engineering standards, and exceedingly high craftsmanship make them highly desirable.

The example offered here completed production on 14 July 1959 and was delivered new to Daimler-Benz of North America in New York City. It was configured from the factory with a red leather interior, an ivory steering wheel, power steering, a Becker Mexico AM/FM radio, automatic antenna, whitewall tires, headrests for the front seats, and a driver-side rearview mirror. This 300d is believed to be largely original, with pleasing patina evident particularly inside the cabin, on the sculpted wood dashboard and leather of the front seats. The current owner acquired the car out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and has taken care to keep it properly maintained, with the engine said to have been rebuilt by a factory dealership in Toronto, Canada.

Accompanied by copies of its original production sheet and data card, this lovely 300d Saloon in driver condition is among the rarer mid-century Mercedes-Benz sedans and represents an excellent opportunity for the discerning collector to experience the very pinnacle of the period’s engineering, craftsmanship, and capabilities.