1961 Mercedes-Benz 300D Convertible Sedan

From November of 1951 through March of 1962, there were 11,430 examples of the Mercedes 300 constructed. This Cabriolet limousine was one of 63 cars produced between 1958 and 1962 (only one was produced in 1962). Production records show this car was built on August 14th of 1961 and was one of the last 1961 models manufactured.

This car was built in October of 1961. It was a European delivery car, used on tour, before arriving 'home' in eastern Virginia. Then it worked, hauling horses for the owner's estate. Her desire was to drive and enjoy the finest auto available. Despite those intentions, the car was not mechanically trouble free. The owner, believing the car required excessive mechanical attention for a vehicle of its pedigree, would decorate the under hood area with a lemon sticker. During restoration, seven life-size lemons were discovered painted inside the trunk lid. They remain there today.

The car was restored in the early 1990s, and was purchased by the present owner from the Blackhawk Collection in 2005.

From the onset, the 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300 was aimed at the American market. The car's outstanding quality was matched only by its breathtaking price - it cost as much as three Cadillac's. But the price ensured exclusivity, and early customers ranged from renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright to actor Yul Brynner. The 300 was also the choice of royalty and heads of state.

Mercedes-Benz 300D is powered by a 3-liter SOHC 6-cylinder engine.