100 014 12 002035
Chassis Number: | 100 014 12 002035 |
---|---|
Build Date: | 1973, converted early 1980's |
Exterior Colour: | 40 Schwarz (Black) |
Vehicle History:
Crayford also did one 600 Pullman conversion (see final picture). Details can be found on this Auction House's website:
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/8040557
- Believed to be the only 600 Pullman converted to Landaulet
configuration
- Conversion by Crayford
- Four-door configuration, long wheelbase chassis
- "Number 60 of the 59 built"
A full generation after it was built, the Mercedes-Benz 600 remains an
engineering and stylistic masterpiece, as exclusive and visually imposing
as ever. In its day, it was a favourite of the world's wealthy and
well-connected, used by everyone from Elvis Presley to the Pope. Powered by
an all-alloy 6.3-litre 300 bhp V-8 engine, the 600 propelled itself with
prodigious acceleration. A comprehensive hydraulic and pneumatic system
powered the self-levelling suspension, assisted the brakes, helped open the
massive doors and smoothly and silently operated the windows, trunk, seats
and sunroof. With characteristic attention to detail, each Mercedes-Benz
600 was to all intents and purposes custom-built. It was available in both
3,200 mm and 3,900 mm wheelbases, the latter of which was available in
four- and six-door form as well as a Landaulet.
Whereas production of the "short" wheelbase 600 amounted to 2,190 units,
the long-wheelbase cars, known as "Pullmans," are considerably rarer, with
only 429 built. Rarest of the 600s was the Pullman Landaulet, of which only
59 cars were produced. Principally the province of popes and potentates,
the Landaulet had a collapsible convertible top over the rear passenger
compartment. It was available in both four- and six-door versions, of which
each could be ordered with a longer convertible top that extended to the
middle partition. Custom paint, interior design and special equipment
ensured that no two cars were identical.
The 600 we have the pleasure of offering here is particularly unique in
that it is believed to the only long wheelbase Pullman ever converted to
Landaulet configuration. As such, it is frequently referred to as "number
60 of the 59 built." The conversion was carried out by Crayford in the UK
sometime in the early 1980s, just after production of 600s had ceased.
Founded in the 1960s, Crayford specialised in all types of body conversions
on coupés, saloons and cabriolets, and the workmanship on this particular
car is superb. It is finished in characteristic black with a cream leather
interior, with opposing seats at the rear.