1968 Mercedes-Benz 600

The large, luxurious, prestige 600 series was built to rival the Grosser Mercedes of the past. At the Frankfurt International Motors of September 1963, Mercedes-Benz introduced the all-new 600. It had state-of-the-art engineering and came equipped with a fuel-injected, overhead-camshaft, V8 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. There was power-assisted steering, central locking, disc brakes, and Mercedes' first air suspension with variable ride control. The front and rear compartments benefitted from a separate air conditioning system. The occupants enjoyed multi-way adjustable seating powered by a sophisticated system of hydraulics that also operated the windows and assisted in opening/closing the doors and boot lid.

The 3200mm (10-foot, 6-inch) wheelbase saloon was the most popular version and had seating for up to six occupants. A long-wheelbase Pullman limousine with seating for eight measured over 20 feet in length. Despite its opulence and weight, the 600 could reach 60 mph in less than 10 seconds and had a top speed that exceeded 125 mph.

Production of the 600 lasted 18 years and came to a close in June 1981 with a total of 2,190 Limousines and 487 Pullman models produced.

For 1968, the 600 Series Sedan had a base price of $22,300, and the Pullman Limousine sold for $25,600. Power was from an overhead valve, eight-cylinder engine displacing 386.2 cubic inches. It had a Bosch fuel injection system that helped the engine produce 300 horsepower. An automatic transmission was standard.

by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2019