The Mercedes 300d was a lengthened version of the earlier 300 models, and it was designed to be an executive’s limousine that would compete head to head with Rolls-Royce. The prestige vehicle received a slightly detuned version of the same engine that Mercedes installed in its 300 SL sports car models. Earlier 300 models had come to be known as “Adenauer”, for the West German Chancellor who favoured them as official transportation, and that prestigious nickname also carried over to the vast successor. The 300d was unparalleled in its time for comfort, as it had a vast interior that was swathed in a log cabin’s worth of hardwood and a herd of thick leather hides, with enough legroom for even the tallest passenger to achieve comfort.

The Saloon offered here shows under 15,000 kilometres, which may well be original, as may be the Black DB 40 paint, which shows no evidence of being a more recent refinish. The interior woodwork and the chrome on the inside and out have both been well kept, whilst the upholstery, headliner, and carpets were all redone more recently to a very fine standard. A charming feature is the Becker Grand Prix radio, with rear speakers and buttons marked with a clarinet, base clef, and treble clef—fascinating! American enthusiasts will note that this is a four-door hardtop, a design trend that extended across the ocean during the late 1950s.

This 300d fairly demands to be taken to the road, where it will continue to offer beyond-reproach comfort and elegance to its passengers. There are few cars of this era that offer luxury in such grand fashion, whether travelling with the family or arriving for the opening of Parliament.