The Mercedes 300 d 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 its vast successor. The 300 d was unparalleled in its time for comfort, as it had a spacious interior that was swathed in a log cabin’s worth of hardwood and a herd of thick leather hides, and it had enough legroom for even the tallest passenger to achieve comfort.

The 300 d offered here was originally built as a saloon, and it was reportedly delivered new to Manila, Philippines, in 1960. According to the current owner, in 1965 it was professionally converted into Cabriolet D style and presented as a gift to long-time Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos. It may well have subsequently seen use on state occasions, although this history has not been substantiated.

Currently, the car is finished in rich dark blue with a complementary fabric convertible top, which has been correctly built as per original Cabriolet D specifications, and it is fitted with landau irons and grey leather upholstery that faces a white steering wheel, which was very much in vogue in Germany during the late 1950s. Its trim throughout is very correct, as is the beautiful woodwork in the interior, the Becker Mexico radio, its prominent AUTOMATIC badging on the transmission, and its clear gauges and lamp lenses. The boot is rather simply finished, and much of the brightwork has been re-plated, although some small interior components appear to be original. A correct boot cover is provided for the folded convertible top.

With only a handful of Cabriolets originally built, and far fewer surviving, the chance to acquire any example is indeed a rare one. For the buyer seeking a 300 d Cabriolet D, this beautiful conversion may just fit the ticket.