1936 Mercedes-Benz 770

The Mercedes-Benz 770 far exceeded basic utilitarian transportation, ranking among the largest, most powerful, and most luxurious of its era. Introduced in 1930 as the successor to the Typ 630, the 770 was known as the Großer Mercedes - meaning 'Big Mercedes,' and primarily served as transportation for government and state officials.

The W07 (Series I) was produced through 1938, with 117 examples created during that time. It used a generous 148-inch wheelbase with a boxed chassis and its beam axles suspended by semi-elliptic leaf springs. The inline eight-cylinder engine had an overhead camshaft, aluminum pistons, and displaced 7,665cc (467.7 cubic inches). In naturally aspirated form, it produced 150 horsepower, while the addition of the optional Roots-type supercharger boosted output to 200 bhp at 2,800 RPM. The four-speed transmission had a direct third gear and an overdrive on fourth. Servo-assisted mechanical brakes provided the stopping power.

During its first eight years, only 117 examples had been created, equating to around 15 examples built per year! Adolf Hitler used a 770 from 1931 onwards, and other dignitaries included Pope Pius XI, Emperor Hirohito, and Reich President Paul von Hindenburg.

The engine continued to displace 7,665cc, but due to significant tuning, its internal designation changed from M07 to M150, and output rose to 155 horsepower at 3,000 RPM without the supercharger. With the supercharger installed, output rose to 230 bhp at 3,200 RPM. A twin-supercharged version - of which five examples were made - was offered, bringing output to 400 horsepower. The transmission was now a five-speed unit with a direct fourth gear and an overdrive fifth.

Production of the W150 770 continued deep into the years of World War II, with the final delivery occurring in March 1944. Production remained very exclusive, with just eighty-eight examples built.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2023