1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 b Cabriolet D

Mercedes-Benz introduced an all-new top-of-the-line luxury car at the Frankfurt Auto Show in April of 1951 dubbed the W186 Model 300. Production began in November of that year and would continue, through three different series, through 1962. Body styles included four-door saloon and cabriolet versions, with classically-inspired styling infused with modern technology and endowed with an all-new 3.0-liter overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine. The suspension is comfortable and responsible, with an independent setup all round and a dash-operated adjustable torsion bar setup.

The second series, the 300 b, began production during the 1954 model year and came with a modified engine which added twin dual-barrel downdraft Solex carburetors and a raised compression ratio of 7.4:1 which helped boost output by 10. Additional modifications included vacuum-assisted power brakes and front door vent windows. Production remained exclusive with 146 examples of the 300 b Cabriolet D examples built including 59 examples built in 1955.

The Model 300 was known as the 'Adenauer' as they were a favorite of Konrad Adenauer, the first chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, for chauffer-driven use.

This particular Mercedes-Benz 300 b Cabriolet D was the 'Standwagen' Factory show car dispatched for exhibition at the 1955 Toronto National Motor Show. For many years, this 300 b Cabriolet D was known as the 'Adenauer Mercedes' because it was reportedly used by the German Consulate in New York City. WHen Audenauer visited New York during the mid-1950s, this vehicle was used for his transportation.

The vehicle's second owner posted it for sale in the New York Times in 1964 and was later acquired by its third and present owner.

The car remains in largely original condition throughout, with an original interior, original convertible top, and over 50 percent of the paint is believed to be original. Newer paint has been applied to the front end and finished to a high standard. The car is equipped with a full factory tool kit, complete set of original fitted luggage, top boot, jack assembly, and emergency parts kit.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2022