This Mercedes-Benz 300 S appears externally much as when it did when it left Daimler-Benz’s workshops in 1953, aside from some of the added flair of the successor 300 Sc; indeed, it is believed to have been based upon an original 300 S’s chassis and coachbuilt bodywork. Underneath, however, is a quite different and rather remarkable experience. The hood opens to reveal a modern Mercedes-Benz M104 fuel-injected inline six-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Coping with the additional power created by this engine, power-assisted front disc brakes were installed, and radial tires fitted.

Great care was taken to ensure that the interior would appear virtually “stock” and correct throughout, including retaining the traditional handsome, heavy polished woodwork, gauges, switchgear, and a period radio face, as well as shaded visors, full leather upholstery, and Wilton wool carpeting. As on an original 300 S, there is even a small rear seat, accommodating either children or, with the cushion folded, additional luggage. The speakers in the kick panels have period-correct bezels and the vents for modern air conditioning are cleverly integrated into the windshield posts, rather than being tucked under the dash as in less carefully thought-out installations. Even the transmission is shifted via a column lever, as-original, completing the detailed presentation of the 1950s look and feel.

Falling in love with its beautiful color combination and intrigued by the engineering of the build, Angus purchased this 300 S for his collection several years ago. In previous ownership as part of the Elkhart Collection, it had been utilized for the Holy Land 1000 tour of Israel. Accompanied by a bottle of iconic Paul Mitchell shampoo, it remains essentially as-acquired, still in excellent overall condition, and would be a marvelous choice for any number of similar events around the world, offering exhilarating performance from two generations of Mercedes-Benz’s superior engineering and craftsmanship.