Lot 264: 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300S Cabriolet

In October 1951 - one month before serial production of the 300 model was begun - another top model, perhaps the rarest and most unusual post-war model to emerge from Mercedes was the 300S, which was presented at the Paris Motor Show. The new model was positioned as a particularly representative car with sports-car characteristics and it met the highest demands with regards to road ability and speed. The 300 was a large car by any standards and competed head-on with other top marques such as Rolls-Royce and Cadillac.Technically the 300 S was derived mainly from the 300 model. In contrast to the 300 model, however, it had a curtailed chassis with a wheelbase, which was 150 mm shorter. Higher compression and the addition of three carburetors boosted power to 150 hp from the 3 litre engine. This made a maximum speed of 175 kph possible. The 300 S model was available as a Cabriolet, as a roadster and as a coupe. Serial production of the three versions started between June and September 1952. The 300 Cabriolet had an impressive body of substantial, yet graceful proportions which were popular with many foreign heads-of-state at the time. The fully lined hood was enormous and featured large chrome plated "Pram Irons" at the rear. Mechanically the 300 Cabriolet was identical to the 2996cc 300 Saloon models. Standard equipment included an all synchromesh gearbox and servo brakes were available as an option. These bespoke models continued in production until 1956.Being one of a mere 203 Cabriolets produced, the car on offer is one of the most coveted and rare models produced by Mercedes Benz. It is finished in correct Mercedes Benz metallic silver with dark blue leather interior and black double duck canvas hood, all in excellent condition. The car was completely restored almost a decade ago and being garaged, continuously serviced and maintained, it is still in almost like new condition with a desirable light patina. The car comes from a large European collection, made up of mostly Mercedes Benz cars, some of which already found new owners through Coys. During the present owners 10 years of ownership, the collector has taken part in various international rallies all over Europe in this particular car, the last one of which took place in 2005 - a trip to the North Cap and back, some 3000 kms - in which the car behaved - as ever - faultlessly. Coming with its H-registration and German papers, there are copies of many bills to document the restoration. A magnificent addition to any collection and a truly majestic form of transportation for its next owner.De couleur gris métalllique Mercedes avec un interior en cuir bleue, elle est dans de superbe condition. Elle fut complétement restorée il y a plus de 10 ans et maintenu de facon continuelle. Cette Mercedes a fait partie d'une impressionante collection faite principalement de Mercedes. Elle est mise en vente avec ses papiers d'immatriculation H- Allemand et de nombreuses copies de sa restoration.