Chassis No.
100.016.12.000411
1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 Six-Door Pullman
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$346,000 USD | Sold
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- One of 42 600 Six-Door Pullman limousines built, and 11 with factory sunroof and air conditioning
- A true limousine with divider, fold-out rear seats, and rear entertainment
- Purchased from the factory by former Mercedes-Benz department head and marque specialist Klaus Kienle
- Used extensively by its second owner, the consignor, for family touring in classic style and luxury
- Accompanied by tools, owner’s manual, workshop manual, and service documentation
Introduced at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz 600 was one of the world’s most advanced automobiles, featuring a hydraulic system that powered nearly everything in the car, including a self-levelling air suspension. Built in a four-door “short” wheelbase iteration and two gargantuan long-wheelbase versions featuring either four or six doors, it quickly established itself as the last word in dignified luxury. Thanks to its technological sophistication, comfort, and the sheer presence of these big Mercedes-Benzes, the 600 quickly became the ride of choice for the global elite. Heads of industry, leading entertainers, dignitaries, dictators, and even the Pope were among those chauffeured about in enviable luxury in their respective Mercedes-Benz 600s.
One of just 428 long-wheelbase 600 Pullman limousines built—of which only 42 were of the six-door configuration, and only 11 were fitted with a factory sunroof and air conditioning—this 1966 example has lived a somewhat different life. While these cars were typically dispatched to the far corners of the globe upon completion, this chassis was retained by the manufacturer to transport visiting engineers and guests. It was eventually sold by the factory to Klaus Kienle, former head of major repairs and the special vehicles department for Mercedes-Benz; in this role, Kienle oversaw production of the mighty 600, including this 600 Pullman. He later founded Heimerdingen, Germany-based classic Mercedes-Benz specialist Kienle Automobiltechnik, using his expertise to restore and maintain vintage examples of the marque.
This car was purchased out of the care of Mr. Kienle in 2003 by its current owner and consignor. His objective was to find the right 600 Six-Door Pullman for comfortable and worry-free family travel, and by all accounts he succeeded: Immediately following its importation into the United States in spring 2004, the seller states that it was driven non-stop from New York to its new home in California! It is said to have performed admirably on this cross-continental marathon and on the many journeys that followed.
A sophisticated and technologically complex machine, this 600 has benefitted from documented service performed by the experts at Mercedes-Benz Classic Center USA in Irvine, California; work undertaken under the ownership of the consignor includes an overhaul of the steering system, belt drives, and suspension. Subtly upgraded with modern entertainment amenities for passengers, yet still retaining its unmistakeable mid-century presence, this 1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 Six-Door Pullman awaits new adventures—with, if one so desires, the whole family in tow.
