1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 Grosser | The Summer Serenade Auction | 18th July

• Engine fully rebuilt less than 1,000 miles ago
• In excess of £55,000 of expenditure since 2018
• Early example, being just the eighth right hand drive example built

Few motor cars have ever commanded the presence, prestige and engineering sophistication of the Mercedes-Benz 600. Introduced in 1963 as the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz range, the W100 was engineered without compromise and quickly became the transport of choice for royalty, heads of state, captains of industry and international celebrities. Powered by a magnificent 6.3 litre V8 and equipped with a complex high-pressure hydraulic system operating many of the vehicle's functions, the 600 remains one of the most remarkable luxury cars ever produced.

Offered here is a particularly significant early example. Chassis number 154, this car was the eighth right hand drive example produced and the seventh delivered to the UK. Completed on 29th January 1965, it was supplied through Woking Motors and delivered to its first owner, Remfield Securities Ltd, on 30th March 1965, initially carrying the registration JDP 2. The car subsequently passed through several owners before spending a period in Australia, later resurfacing in Ireland in 2017 where restoration work commenced prior to its return to the UK and re-registration in 2018.

Acquired by the current owner in October 2018 and now registered as 600 SXJ, the car has since been the subject of extensive mechanical recommissioning and improvement works, supported by invoices totalling well in excess of £55,000. Most notably, the engine has been completely rebuilt, including the fuel injection pump and injectors, and has covered fewer than 1,000 miles since completion. Whilst not the original engine, it is a correct later right hand drive unit, reportedly sourced from a vehicle returned to Mercedes-Benz by the Sultan of Brunei in exchange for a V12-powered replacement during the early 1990s.

The hydraulic system has received significant attention, with the high-pressure side now said to be free from leaks and capable of maintaining pressure indefinitely, while the vendor notes the switches and return side would benefit from some adjustment.The suspension benefits from new valves and bags, the braking system has been comprehensively overhauled including rebuilt front calipers, and the steering has been refurbished. The coachwork presents well with only minor imperfections noted and, importantly, with no evidence of corrosion. Much of the chrome has been replated and remains highly attractive. Inside, the grey leather interior is in good condition and complemented by beautifully refinished wood veneers. Accompanying the car is an extensive history file, together with a hydraulic system maintenance kit, spare suspension blocks, wheel wedges, original jack and unused spare wheel.

A rare opportunity to acquire one of the earliest right hand drive Mercedes-Benz 600s built, benefiting from substantial recent expenditure and offered with an impressive history file and supporting spares package. Consigned by Fraser Smith