Mercedes-Benz 300 S Roadster 1953 - World Of Classic Cars -

Mercedes-Benz 300 S Roadster 1953

Bridging the gap between the Classic and Modern Eras, the Mercedes-Benz 300 was launched in 1952 with an unbeatable combination of modern engineering and performance and meticulous Old World build quality. They were built to uncompromising standards, and they employed the latest materials and technologies to achieve maximum power and minimum weight. Each car was lavished with beautiful finishes and woodwork, and each could travel at triple digit speeds with a full load of cosseted occupants and their luggage.
The 300 S was built upon the already sumptuous top-range 300 series chassis, with special attention being given to appearance details and build quality. The extraordinary costs to do so resulted in a “halo” car for Mercedes-Benz, which was priced nearly 50 per cent higher than its counterparts. This car was equipped with triple Solex carburettors that were mounted to the 2,996-cubic centimetre engine, which could produce 150 horsepower, and it was inarguably one of the best luxury touring cars available in the 1950s.

Mercedes-Benz 300 S Roadster 1953

The sportiest 300 S variant was the Roadster, which was a dashing convertible that had a top that folded completely flat, giving the car a very elegant appearance. Only 141 were produced, and they are the most desirable 300 Ss amongst enthusiasts today.
A copy of this Roadster’s original Daimler-Benz data card, which is on file, notes that the car was purchased by the Ferrikh Company of Iran and was originally delivered to Geneva, Switzerland. A longstanding story that accompanies the car is that it was purchased by West German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer as a present for Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Persia. As the Shah was in Geneva at the time, the car was delivered there. Whilst no additional documentation exists to support the story, the car was originally delivered completely in green, including the paint, leather, and even the top fabric. This seems appropriate, as green is one of the colours of the Persian flag and is a colour of great significance in Iranian culture.

Mercedes-Benz 300 S Roadster 1953

Recently, this car was body-off restored with great care, and included in the work performed was a complete rebuild of the engine and mechanicals, as necessary, by renowned German Mercedes-Benz specialist Lars Rombelsheim. It was refinished in a sophisticated combination of Fishsilver Metallic paint over beautifully tailored red leather upholstery and a black fabric top. Other features include bumper guards, yellow driving lights, the desirable Becker Mexico radio, and a lovely set of fitted luggage, including a hat box, which is painted in a striking, contrasting olive and stows neatly in the boot.
As perhaps the finest German grand tourer of its era, this sporty 300 S Roadster boasts intriguing history, a superb restoration in striking colours, and excellent equipment.