[{"id": 4621011, "authorName": "pel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pel/", "bidAmount": 600, "content": "$600 bid placed by pel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591460166, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621041, "authorName": "unclewill", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/unclewill/", "bidAmount": 1200, "content": "$1,200 bid placed by unclewill", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591461156, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621074, "authorName": "Roverfan92", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/roverfan92/", "bidAmount": 2000, "content": "$2,000 bid placed by Roverfan92", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591461892, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621087, "authorName": "56PackardMan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/56packardman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These magnificent Mercedes have an elegance that later M-Bs have never equalled.\r\n\u2022\r\nIn the early 1970s there were six of these cars, owned by two extended families, in Amarillo, TX, population 125,000 at the time.\r\n\r\nHere's a funny (but true) story about that:\r\nhttps://56packardman.com/2017/03/13/gear-head-tuesday-the-grose-mercedes-amarillo-and-gina-lollobrigida/", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1591462351, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621089, "authorName": "Bsporken002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bsporken002/", "bidAmount": 10000, "content": "$10,000 bid placed by Bsporken002", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591462425, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621092, "authorName": "garymyman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/garymyman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Green over tan. Hold me.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1591462562, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621140, "authorName": "Bsporken002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bsporken002/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is a very good example:\r\n- 40 years + one family ownership\r\n- repainted and reupholstered recently\r\n- reviewed/ repaired pneumatic systems \r\n- besides paint and leather very original car and not mistreated by bad mechanics .\r\n\r\nOnly two minor minuses:\r\n- pneumatic systems have been repaired but not fully refurbished . I am sure it\u2019s working but for how long ?\r\n- engine as 115k miles on it : if well maintained could do 200k miles without issues. However full rebuild would be better .\r\n\r\nHaving purchased three classic cars in various states I am wary of cars that look great in terms of paint and interior .\r\nWhat matters is engine/ drive train and most of all is body / metal quality . Neither can be seen in pictures . Illinois has salt on the roads: who can guarantee it has never seen salt for 40+ years ? \r\nAnd an engine with issues can easy I with a few gimmicks been made to run cold for a you tube video .\r\nAt the right price this is however a car for someone with a big garage, wide open roads and the funds to maintain it .", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591463576, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621144, "authorName": "Dean_Laumbach", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dean_laumbach/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The car that defined the \u201cspare no expense\u201d attitude in design and engineering during this era at Mercedes-Benz. Good to see a well sorted example finally make its way to the market as most of the vehicles I have seen offered over the years which were more of \u201cproject\u201d examples. These are not the easiest cars to buy without access to knowledgeable and willing professionals to keep them in service. The seller @starmotors knows these cars very well, and the new owner will be buying a great car and with it the support needed to keep this car in top condition for years of enjoyment.", "likes": 16, "timestamp": 1591463751, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621290, "authorName": "OutOfMyElement", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/outofmyelement/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Great story @56PackardMan. The picture of Rudolf Uhlenhaut and the 300 SL is awesome. Thanks for the top notch linkage.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591467388, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621300, "authorName": "tyten123", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tyten123/", "bidAmount": 12000, "content": "$12,000 bid placed by tyten123", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591467599, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621319, "authorName": "West-Coaster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/west-coaster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"sold new by Knauz Continental Autos in Lake Forest, Illinois.\"\r\n\r\nReally hoping the original owner was Abe Froman, the sausage king of Chicago. \r\n\r\nGLWTS", "likes": 15, "timestamp": 1591468376, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621342, "authorName": "hn11", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hn11/", "bidAmount": 12500, "content": "$12,500 bid placed by hn11", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591469062, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621348, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Or Dolores DeLago, the toast of Chicago...", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591469496, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621353, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I agree about the Illinois ownership, but Neil at Star Motors is one of the two or three people who really know M199 engines and W100 cars in the USA, and he will be candid about the cars virtues and vices, if it has any. A first-rate Mercedes collection would have to have one of these. And if by chance I decided to collect one calendar year of Mercedes production that had the highest number of stellar models in that one year, it would be close to this year- for me, it would be 1971, which gets you this car, the 3.5 coupe and cabriolet, the 113 car, the lovely and reliable 220D.. or this car's year of birth, which would get you the first year of the 107. Perhaps one would have to have both 1971 and 1972. And then add a 300SL just when people thought you were being too narrow.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1591469792, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621384, "authorName": "Frank_Barrett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frank_barrett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Mercedes-Benz's old slogan \"Engineered like no other car,\" is fully demonstrated here, showing why no other car used hydraulic window lifts, etc. and why Stuttgart's finest engineers quickly fled back to electric window motors. Even the cowl vent opened and closed hydraulically. \n\nKudos to Jim Kinnear (whoever and wherever he may be) for sticking with this 600 so long, through maintenance and repairs thick and thin, preserving another German automotive landmark. The color combination is subtle but stunning.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591471094, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621442, "authorName": "shervinator", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shervinator/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Everyone clear the way. The Shah has arrived.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591472891, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621454, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors Hi there, we met at Karls meet some years back, I brought my Pullman down from Toronto and recently you sold us a trunk ram for the car. Regarding the replacement front seat leather, I know of GAHH and have to say the color match of the seats and front arm rests is not the best. I know you are pretty particular about your 600s, Is there another supplier out there that you have dealt with that could come closer? Greg", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591473233, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621477, "authorName": "56PackardMan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/56packardman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@OutOfMyElement\r\n(blush)\r\nThank you! \u263a\ufe0f", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591474060, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621508, "authorName": "Aqeel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/aqeel/", "bidAmount": 15000, "content": "$15,000 bid placed by Aqeel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591475300, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621509, "authorName": "Teterman2005", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/teterman2005/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Truly one of the greatest cars ever produced....", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1591475341, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621566, "authorName": "Fishers", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fishers/", "bidAmount": 16000, "content": "$16,000 bid placed by Fishers", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591477567, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621656, "authorName": "Bsporken002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bsporken002/", "bidAmount": 17500, "content": "$17,500 bid placed by Bsporken002", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591480532, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621691, "authorName": "Thirdworldguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thirdworldguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\u201cEvery evil dictator had one of these\u201d, Jay Leno.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1591481589, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621712, "authorName": "Fangio8c", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fangio8c/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is the flat black spray paint overspray on the muffler from trying to cover up surface rust on the underbody above the muffler? Looks like it from the photos. Same with rockers... Ugh.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591482798, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621729, "authorName": "adawil2002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adawil2002/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Be still my heart. This looks exactly like the first MB 600 I ever saw in Pittsburgh. Have been smitten ever since. Drove my friend's 600 as long as I refilled it with fuel. Everything else is a go-kart in comparison. Definitely tugs at my heart strings. Have wanted one for 30 years!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591483386, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621741, "authorName": "Longlivethestick", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/longlivethestick/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If you have a few minutes to spare go watch the Jay Leno garage episode that he did on his own MB 600. It will help you to know what this car is all about.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591483975, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621768, "authorName": "Oberon01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oberon01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Lovely example, and I have deduced who the long-term owner was. I'll leave the details out, but suffice to say that the car was in capable hands. Maintenance of the vehicle was unlikely to have been a noteworthy financial burden to Mr. Kinnear.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591484895, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621809, "authorName": "PWSchuh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pwschuh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Given the size and wheelbase of these cars, it seems like the amount of space in the back seat area, as shown in pic #91, is like a normal sedan from the era and less than you would think it might be.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591486245, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621811, "authorName": "astrotower", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/astrotower/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@West-Coaster , Considering location, I\u2019m fairly confident that this particular example was originally owned by Thorn Industries on behalf of CEO (and US Ambassador to the UK) Robert Thorn. Perhaps seller can confirm. \r\n\r\n^ ^", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591486272, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4621827, "authorName": "Fishers", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fishers/", "bidAmount": 20000, "content": "$20,000 bid placed by Fishers", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591486771, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4621877, "authorName": "Fineline", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fineline/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "300hp and 434 pounds of torque in 1972 was pretty amazing. Sure, American muscle cars were claiming more but they couldn\u2019t match this car\u2019s ability to cruise effortlessly all day at triple digit speeds while holding a normal conversation with the passengers. This car is incredible. Such a joy to be able to look at these photos on a lazy, rainy Saturday afternoon.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1591488060, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622036, "authorName": "David_P", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/david_p/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I can smell that interior from here.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591491722, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622084, "authorName": "Bsporken002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bsporken002/", "bidAmount": 21000, "content": "$21,000 bid placed by Bsporken002", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591493228, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4622088, "authorName": "CascoPhil", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cascophil/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A lovely car! 600\u2019s are so classy and, as others noted, the pinnacle of Mercedes sophistication and engineering for its time. In case there are those that care and don\u2019t know, it is the first 600 to have electronic ignition (aka switchgear).", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591493309, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622103, "authorName": "Callb5", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/callb5/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The hydraulic lines are not a minor minus, they are a potential major headache. I had mine completely redone at a cost of 35k. The other problem we encountered and had quite a struggle to resolve is the proximity of the fuel lines to the motor. Heat from the motor would make the fuel boil resulting in great difficulties in starting up when the engine is warm.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591493812, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622127, "authorName": "superleggera", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/superleggera/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What a great and elegant car. In the early 2000s, I collected a one-owner 600 Pullman at an East Coast port for a relative who had it shipped from Germany... Customs asked if it had come from a farm (standard query to prevent agricultural contagion) and it was barred from passing through the Lincoln Tunnel on a flatbed due to post-9/11 precautions. Cousin came to pick up the Pullman for a cross-country drive to his California home after some fine tuning--which included getting the hydraulics to the point where the trunk lid opened with enough force to take your head off if you weren't paying attention. \n\nI was recruited for a final shakedown drive despite having plans with a new girlfriend...she was invited to come along in the back of the Pullman--a very modest and lefty Naval officer's daughter, she had us drop her off around the corner from her apartment, perhaps so noone mistook her new boyfriend for the son of \"an evil dictator.\" Regardless, the 600 was a good luck charm--we've been together ever since. Hope this brings good fortune on its new owner.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1591494722, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622145, "authorName": "Bsporken002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bsporken002/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The 600 off factory had 250hp: what adjustments were made to up to 300hp? \r\n\r\nDon\u2019t see any upgrades in the engine room compartment ?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591494969, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622194, "authorName": "some_dude", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/some_dude/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Owned by a major oil company CEO for many years-- very appropriate!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591496790, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622235, "authorName": "CaptainMyCaptain", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/captainmycaptain/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The best part of owning a Mercedes 600 is going to the Owners\u2019 Club parties.\r\n\r\nIt makes the expense all worth it.\r\n\r\nI remember the first meeting I attended like it was yesterday. Just like at any social gathering, people tend to congregate towards others that most reflect their own personalities.\r\n\r\nOver in one corner of the library, just to the left of the chocolate fountain and fondue pot were Pol Pot, Mao Zedong, the Shah of Iran, Idi Amin, Leonid Brezhnev, and Kim I\u2019ll sung. I wandered over and tried to engage them in a little small talk. Got nowhere. \r\n\r\nI was like, \u201cCome on. You can come up with a way to suppress the masses, take control, and eliminate your competition but you can\u2019t figure out a way to start a discussion?\u201d Their 600s may have been bulletproof, but their social skills were not.\r\n\r\nI moved over closer to the bar. John Lennon, George Harrison, Pope Paul VI, and Elvis are all huddled up, each with a drink in their hand, debating music, methodology, and the options each chose to include in their own 600. Surprisingly, the pope held his own on the automotive side of things. He relayed a tale of getting his 600 up to 100 MPH on the autobahn and keeping it there for three hours straight. Talk about breaking several cardinal rules. He said it caused a complete reformation of his thoughts on German engineering. (Perhaps not the best words he could have used.)\r\n\r\nI made my way to the kitchen. There was Aristotle Onassis, Jack Nicholson, and Coco Chanel gathered around the island, eating off the cheese plate and flirting like high school kids at a sock hop. Chanel may have been famous for her Number 5, but it was the number 3 that looked like it was going to be a player in this soir\u00e9e.\r\n\r\nIt almost made me blush.\r\n\r\nAnd then I made my way into the solarium. The most improbably gathering I could have imagined were engrossed in a high stakes game of Texas Hold \u2018em while each extolled the virtues of their own Mercedes 600. It was Elizabeth Taylor, Jay Leno, Queen Elizabeth, and Jeremy Clarkson.\r\n\r\nJust being there made me nervous. As I headed out, I swear I saw one of the Lizzes throw a Tierra into the pot in the middle of the table and Leno pull out the title to a garage to raise the bet.\r\n\r\nThere\u2019s a reason these cars are called \u201cNot just the best luxury car of its era, but the best luxury car of all time\u201d.\r\n\r\nAs I headed out the back door, I heard William Holden say, \u201cWealth is quiet. Rich is loud. Poor is flashy.\u201d\r\n\r\nMay this auction end quietly and the new owner enjoy the party.", "likes": 53, "timestamp": 1591498723, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622247, "authorName": "kellymelissa143", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kellymelissa143/", "bidAmount": 22000, "content": "$22,000 bid placed by kellymelissa143", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591499320, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4622257, "authorName": "Bsporken002", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bsporken002/", "bidAmount": 23000, "content": "$23,000 bid placed by Bsporken002", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591499546, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4622334, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 25000, "content": "$25,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591504391, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4622386, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good Morning Folks, I will give you an explanation of the history of the car as follows, servicing, purchasing and repairs.\r\n\r\nThis 600 is one of the last serial numbers produced for the USA market. The car came equipped with the latest of updates, transistorized ignition, single point distributor, USA emission control, updated crankshaft for engine balance, updated 3 ring pistons instead of 4 ring pistons, USA one piece safety belt, updated complete Bosch brass hydraulic system (all valve blocks are made out brass instead of aluminum, longer life without leaks).\r\n\r\nWe had been supplying parts for this car since 1997. Majority of the service work was done at Briar Cliff Classics and Imported by owner Bob Millstein, an excellent shop. Bob maintained the car for the customer till the very end, it was driven on a regular basis. \r\n\r\nLast year Bob said the car was for sale, We took a drive to Briar Cliff manor, looked at the car and made a deal. I asked Bob if the car was good to drive. He said \u201csure\u201d and we drove the car back. Well in the 600 world, hopping in a 600 and taking a ride can be an experience. It was. We drove the car back to Endicott new York, ice cold air, radio working no malfunctions...till we got into a traffic jam. The car started to skip. It was not overheating, air was working fine but just a skip. It would come and go. We knew it was something in the ignition system. The last thing We needed was a stalled 600 in a construction zone with people screaming at us. The skip went away and we made it thru. We drove another 70 miles to the famous Roscoe diner in Roscoe NY. The skip was back and worse than before. We decided to risk and a mile later the car quit running. We popped the distributor cap and we could see the bakelite of the single point had broken off. We had the car towed back. It was a simple fix but the styrofoam kit that comes with and extra set of points was missing. The Car was repaired.\r\n\r\nWe had the car sold to a body man that wanted to repair the car. We told him it was a tantamount task to do this. He insisted and purchased the car, repaired the rust in the bottom of the rear quarter panel, a few small nicks on the doors, radiator support and bottom of the fenders. Metal was used. Repainted the car, undercoated it, he did not do the roof due the complexity and the paint was in very good condition. Disassembled the car's interior. He got in over his head and we wound buying the car back and reassembling it.\r\n\r\nPutting the car back together was a task, we checked all the hydraulics, repaired the window door switch drivers side, completely rebuilt the climate control system (yes the capillary ambient temperature gauge still works), added new tires, checked brakes, fluids, detailed the engine bay, checked function of the hydraulics (excellent) no leaks, repaired the horns, checked function on the car. Items that do not work are the rear radio control, small transmission leak and will need air bellows eventually.\r\n\r\nWe would consider this a maintained driver quality car. It is not restored by any means but well maintained. The car is nice to drive, does not smoke on start up, has excellent acceleration, kick down works properly, We would leave this car alone and have fun with it. It shows very well.", "likes": 22, "timestamp": 1591533064, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622393, "authorName": "AndyN", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andyn/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@CaptainMyCaptain.............awesome comment! Feels like I was at the party!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591533716, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622419, "authorName": "FleetFilter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fleetfilter/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If I was special ordering a 600 in 1972, this Olive Green would have made my top three list. I have always wanted one of these, but as a Mercedes guy, I simply know too much.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591535561, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622423, "authorName": "urelfer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/urelfer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Starmotors: Thank you for the excellent and honest explanation of the car's history and its condition, this helps a lot.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591535957, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622435, "authorName": "haploid", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/haploid/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My father had one of these. I don't remember what year it was, I do remember that it was the first one imported into Canada (my dad liked his cars). It was light blue. His main gripe was that the car had no cruise control. He complained to Mercedes about this, but received no sympathy. Shortly after buying it, my parents went on a road trip in the US. Somewhere in the middle of nowhere (Arizona) it had a problem so dad phoned Mercedes. They said stay where you are, Within half an hour a driver showed up and took them to a hotel. By the next morning Mercedes had flown in two mechanics, By lunchtime the car was fixed and they were on their way. I did get to drive it quite a bit, a pretty amazing experience for a three-ton car, Did turn heads at the A&W, but not so much as eating burgers off the picnic tables in the Rolls.\n\nSomething I want to own? No thanks, I have memories of howling around highway ramps in a new one and dealing with a 50 year old one would surely be a disappointment.", "likes": 18, "timestamp": 1591536688, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622479, "authorName": "Thirty-three-and-a-third", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thirty-three-and-a-third/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Was there not a 1972 Mercedes-Benz 600 that Daryl Van Horne (Jack Nicholson) used in The Witches of Eastwick? Maybe referenced already, if so sorry - Beautiful car. GLWA", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591538644, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622556, "authorName": "Undertaker", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/undertaker/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Gorgeous. Expensive. And built to stay that way.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591541397, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622609, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors how bad was the rust on the quarters and fenders prior to the paint job? Did it require cutting the lower portion of the panels off? Are there any photos of the car from when you owned it the first time?", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591544188, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622678, "authorName": "FlatbushAve", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/flatbushave/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Had a neighbor with a green one in West Hartford. What I remember most about the car is how it seemed to take a very long time to pass by, you'd see it, turn your head, turn back...its still going by. Very, very German. Like the early Tiger Tanks when all your really needed was a stable tractor to put your 88 on. Nope, variable road wheels are German. Tractors are not...", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591547296, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622789, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi @gregpryckman, I do not have pics of the car prior to repair, the rust was bubbling in the spots, I asked him if he cut it out and welded it, he said yes. I would say it was a small repair in all the spots, it was properly sealed and finished, there no ripples to indicate the repair. I asked him about the wheel arches and he said they were solid. Floor pans are solid and so are the jack points indicated by him. Hi,@fangio8c the paint was on the exhaust to cover the ungainly look of bright stainless steel when looking at the car from the side. the areas are all solid. Hi,@gregpryckman the Leather is tough on these cars, just the sheer amount that have to be fitted and skived. The material from GAHH is good, the match will never be due to aging, They make a Roser leather from Huber, it is excellent to the original match. The only way we now how to do the 600 leather is to the car completely with a professional trimmer fitting or stitching the panels. We have done this on a few cars...it is very expensive.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1591551772, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622828, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 38472, "content": "$38,472 bid placed by Gregpryckman", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591554131, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4622872, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 40000, "content": "$40,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591555791, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4622883, "authorName": "Omnivore", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/omnivore/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Shout out to Neil and co. at Star. \r\nNearly bought from them a lovely 111 coupe- a nicely mellowed and sorted fine driver, like the subject lot (which is the sweet spot for condition IMO). We were going to do a side trip from the Canada GP in Montreal to Endicott to inspect the car but couldn\u2019t make it happen. Regret that one. These guys are true pros and excellent to deal with- bid with confidence.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591556115, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622967, "authorName": "Irebld", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/irebld/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors\r\nThank you so much for providing the videos of driving and using the horns on this magnificent car. I have always admired the 600. I even bought one of Karl's limited run of books. I have never actually seen nor ridden in one, in the flesh. Your videos have given me a nice little taste.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591560036, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4622974, "authorName": "West-Coaster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/west-coaster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Thirty-three-and-a-third\r\n\"Was there not a 1972 Mercedes-Benz 600 that Daryl Van Horne (Jack Nicholson) used in The Witches of Eastwick?\"\r\n\r\nYep: https://www.imcdb.org/v002417.html\r\n\r\nGreat source for any questions about vehicles in movies or TV shows.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1591560319, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623048, "authorName": "DeaconBlues", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/deaconblues/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Spectacular 600. \r\n\r\nSpeaking of the 600's appearances on film, I always get a kick out of \"Diamonds Are Forever\" when Blofeld (in drag) escapes from the casino and kidnaps Tiffany Case before riding off in a blue 600. \"Well, well, well. Look what the cat dragged in.\"", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1591563590, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623109, "authorName": "cyclemikey", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cyclemikey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Shah car, indeed. My only ride in a 600 came late one evening when I happened to be at the shop late, as did a colleague at another shop in the same complex. He was in the process of federalizing one of these that had belonged to Reza Pahlavi, who kept it in Paris for his use when there. So of course we had to take the car out for a test drive, with me in the back (where else?). As I was marveling at the beautiful rosewood writing desks and sumptuous cabin, I heard, \"watch this!\" as the car took off in a rush that made me seriously consider whether the horsepower and torque ratings were just possibly somewhat understated. I don't know who imported that car, or whatever became of it, but I never forgot the ride on that summer evening.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591566927, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623195, "authorName": "fka_ray", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fka_ray/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": ".....this is far from the first Grosser on BaT, so I may have told this one before, but here's my only 600 story, not-so-short version.....in the high summer of 1972, I had just delivered a knockout, salmon/coral colored one year old Mark III to my employer's Chev/Olds dealership in Canada's midwest, Winnipeg, Manitoba, something I did once a month or so as part of my job buying luxury/muscle cars in the Toronto area and shipping them west, primarily by the railcar load.....usually flew home, but the boss had other plans.....seems one of his other wholesalers had somehow saddled him with a rather unusual item that was proving to be a sales problem, and asked if I knew any Toronto dealer ready to step up to the plate for a not-quite-perfect \"short wheelbase\" (only 18 feet long) Benz 600......I knew just such a person, an extremely colorful, multi-multilingual European powerhouse with an inner city lot specializing in expensive used imports, and he loved having cars nobody else had.......I also knew he was a canny, but impulsive buyer, and trying to pre-sell it over the phone was the wrong approach, so away I went on a Manitoba dealer plate, driving a car with Belgian tags, and very little ownership paperwork of any sort.....but I was young and stupid, and.just to make my life a little more exciting, I decide to drive back via Minneapolis to visit a charming postgrad student/barmaid i had met on a previous trip....\r\n......now try to picture this...a tiny US Border post on the then infrequently travelled highway linking Manitoba and the USA.....hot, dusty day, \"The French Connection\" heroin-stuffed Lincoln was a current hit movie, and this big blue behemoth of a car comes hurtling towards the post thru the shimmering heat waves and pulls to a stop.....the bemused officer says nothing at first, but circles the car twice, practically chuckling at the novelty....he finally says, \"let me guess, this isn't your car, is it?\"...nope.....\"and you don't have a registration in your name, do you\"....nope, but I do have insurance.....\"you realize I could have this car torn apart and searched, don't you?\".......sounds like a lot of work on a hot day for nothing, I quipped.......he smiled, and went quiet for about 3 minutes, obviously trying to decide if anyone was foolish enough to try a drug run in the world's most ostentatious car at a crossing where guards with not much else to do might amuse themselves with just such a search......finally, his mind made up, he laughed and said, I was all good, but \"WTF is this thing\", and I whiled away the next 20 minutes or so giving my new best friend the Grosser Grand Tour, no documents or ID were ever requested.....these were the days long before 9/11...\r\n.....finishing up quickly, the girlfriend was totally unimpressed with the 600, other than how non-sporty it was, and I did finish the trip at a rapid pace, but not crazy fast, as gas mileage fell off catastrophically above 80mph, and I hated extra stops.....and yes, after some ruthless haggling on both sides, the dark blue/grey velour(?) 1964 Grosser changed owners for 16,000 Canadian dollars, not bad considering it was only around $24,000USD when new ( 3 times the price of a contemporary Cadillac 60 Special)....everybody went away happy, especially my boss....", "likes": 25, "timestamp": 1591570686, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623319, "authorName": "biffer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/biffer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Quite simply the worlds best limousine ever made, and a status symbol like no other.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1591575441, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623397, "authorName": "ekmcmullen", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ekmcmullen/", "bidAmount": 50000, "content": "$50,000 bid placed by ekmcmullen", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591579270, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4623410, "authorName": "Cycliccollective", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cycliccollective/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice mercedes ! I took two girls to prom in my buddies dads 600. My friend dressed as a chauffeur. Good times.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591579843, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623421, "authorName": "Ricklshop", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ricklshop/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@West-Coaster One of my fav movie cameos for a 600 is in Groundhog Day. Bill Murray (channeling Clint Eastwood) pulls up to the movie theater in one.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591580237, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623432, "authorName": "Southfloridamp", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/southfloridamp/", "bidAmount": 50500, "content": "$50,500 bid placed by Southfloridamp", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591580593, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4623444, "authorName": "911930bp", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/911930bp/", "bidAmount": 60000, "content": "$60,000 bid placed by 911930bp", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591580833, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4623453, "authorName": "Jimbrit", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimbrit/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The 600 movie cameo that stands out for me was Forest Whitaker\u2019s portrayal of Idi Amin in \u201cThe Last King of Scotland\u201d......I believe the 600 in that movie was a green car too? I can\u2019t imagine walking into Kanuz and seeing a 600 in their showroom....love the story on this and surely the noted updated features makes this a particularly desirable 600. GLWS Neil. Cheers James", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591581065, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623463, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "When Karl Middelhauve, the other American guru of M100 and W100 cars, had his shop in Woxall, PA, I drove up there with a friend and was lucky enough to drive a couple of Karl's 600s. One had been fitted with a Vortech blower, as I recall, and had even more grunt than a stock 600, which is saying something. \n\n600s are magnificent cars, but I recall something I think Frank Barrett said: \"Even undriven, the car consumes an inordinate amount of space.\" Just sitting there, the cost of the real estate to house a 600 is more than almost any other car. Except, of course, the Pullman 600 which is, what 22 feet long? I shudder to think. \n\nFinally, there is a story I've seen quoted in various auto literature about Stirling Moss who drove a 600 around Brand's Hatch racetrack and reportedly came within a few seconds of the sedan lap record. Does anyone know if this is true? I hope it is. After all, Moss had some experience going fast in Mercedes-Benz automobiles. \n\nAll the best with this auction, Neil. It's a smashing car, I Just can't afford another building to keep it in. Oh, and there's the matter of buying the car itself.....", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591581280, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623475, "authorName": "GP1393", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gp1393/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Worth every dollar, euro or d-Mark it receives. Amazing", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591581643, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623507, "authorName": "GP1393", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gp1393/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "So how many people can\u2019t get \u201cOn the Dark Side\u201d by John Cafferty out of their head?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591582562, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623512, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have two favorite 600 spottings, Bo Derek in her wedding dress in \u201c10\u2019\u2019 and Eddy Murphy in \u201cTrading Places\u201d. Three spottings actually \u201cReds\u201d with Bruce Willis, that\u2019s my Pullman filmed here in TO.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591582801, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623531, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 65000, "content": "$65,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591583101, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4623562, "authorName": "amc08", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amc08/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bobby Womack asserts that Janis Joplin was inspired to the song Mercedes Benz after a ride with him in his new 600....\nBeautiful car\nGLWTA", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1591584448, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623579, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It occurs to me, looking through the invoices for work on this car, that the current bid is some fraction of the total of all the invoices. The current bid does not, at a rough guess, equal half of the money spent to maintain this car. \r\n\r\nWow.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591584745, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623609, "authorName": "Yampaman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/yampaman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "They are just the ultimate. Have always fantasized about Sir Paul and I taking a spin in the English countryside. Yes, that is the truth. Something about the look of this piece of art just takes one on a trip of a different kind.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591586016, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623625, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@jim_rosenthal i have to agree with you, the invoices on this car are mind blowing, as a 600 owner since 1997 i can honestly say that this stack blows my mind. The first owner must have loved his car.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591586787, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623706, "authorName": "techeh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/techeh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "this lovely 600 has all its windows and sunroof hydraulically controlled with oil ? \r\nI believed Mercedes limousines of this vintage were controlled \r\nby air systems \r\nor was that just the straight passenger cars \r\nno ?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591591544, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623751, "authorName": "MGDavis123", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mgdavis123/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Der Grosser!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591594502, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623757, "authorName": "MGDavis123", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mgdavis123/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@astrotower comes with a prop Dagger of Meggido?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591594977, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623832, "authorName": "West-Coaster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/west-coaster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@GP1393 \r\n\"So how many people can\u2019t get \u201cOn the Dark Side\u201d by John Cafferty out of their head?\"\r\n\r\nYep! And I always hated that song, mainly because to my tin ear, it always sounded like a blatant rip-off of Bruce Springsteen's sound. I'd be willing to bet that when most people first heard it on the radio years ago, they assumed they were hearing a new tune from the E Street Band.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591610993, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623833, "authorName": "West-Coaster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/west-coaster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Gregpryckman @jim_rosenthal\n\nSpeaking of invoices...\n\nI'm quite certain you both remember the \"Top Gear\" episode years ago when Clarkson and May were comparing invoices for upkeep and repairs on their respective classic luxury cars, Clarkson's being the 600, and May had some kind of older Rolls-Royce or Bentley. \n\nAs they were reading off four-figure and five-figure GBP amounts in a one-upmanship tete-a-tete, all I remember thinking was \"Man, those guys make a LOT of money!\"", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591611406, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623855, "authorName": "drcharles2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/drcharles2/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Although threatened, the trunk space has room for the invoices.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591613804, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623871, "authorName": "CraigInPA", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/craiginpa/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@CaptainMyCaptain .... There really is (or at least was) an M100 club. I was a member years ago when I had the 6.9, and attended a meeting at Karl Middlehauve's place in Woxall, PA. It was, in a word, incredible. In addition to the 6.3's and 6.9's, there were short and long wheelbase 600's, a 450SL with a transplanted 6.9 engine, and Karl's own project, a 6.3 powered 300 W111 convertible. The \"meeting\" brought together Karl's customers, who all spoke in hushed tones about the repair costs of their particular ride. After hearing about the cost of the repairs to fix the hydraulic doors from a 600 owner, and the cost of rebuilding all of the height valves and replacing the air bags on a 6.3, I felt very pleased to own a 6.9 with conventional doors and oil filled struts that I could service myself!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591614723, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623890, "authorName": "hank42", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hank42/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@bsporken002, what are you talking about?,\" Pneumatic systems have been repaired but not refurbished\" and that's a minus. Do you own a 600 as I do? If the hydraulic system has been repaired then there were leaks and the seals were changed and so that's all that needs to be done.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591615665, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623905, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I kept going through the invoice stack feeling more and more sympathy for the former owner who was trying so hard to take care of the car. It is a TALL stack to say the least. Seems to me that the car was fortunate that he owned it. \r\n\r\nAs far as I know, the 600 had a central hydraulic system that powered the windows, doors, seat adjusters, etc- all the things that would be done by electric servomotors in a \"normal\" car. Keep in mind that at the time these were made, Mercedes cars had manual seat adjusters and electric windows. The suspension system was built with air-pressurized rubber \"springs\" and normal hydraulic shock absorbers. As far as I know the two systems were not combined, but I could be wrong. I would welcome any information. \r\n\r\nIs there anyone here (beside the seller) who has owned and driven both the 600 and the 300/6.3? I'm keen to hear their impressions of the differences between the two cars.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591616939, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623935, "authorName": "63impalaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/63impalaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Many of you likely know but for those who do not - the majority of the then automotive press proclaimed this the finest automobile on earth. One buff magazine tested the 600 against a Cadillac, Lincoln, Imperial, Rolls and Jag. Find a copy and it will make an enjoyable read. If ever one wondered what a car could be if engineers were permitted to spend as they please, here it is. Ugly enough to make a freight train take a dirt road - competent enough to be road competitive with any new large luxury sedan. \r\n\r\nDanny Plotkin", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591618656, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4623941, "authorName": "Thirty-three-and-a-third", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thirty-three-and-a-third/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@West-Coaster - I forgot about that website. Thanks.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591618923, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624111, "authorName": "agalati4", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/agalati4/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@fka_ray was it meant for Vinko ?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591623364, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624112, "authorName": "MrcBnz55", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrcbnz55/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Bsporken002 wrote:\r\n\"The 600 off factory had 250hp: what adjustments were made to up to 300hp?\r\n\r\nDon\u2019t see any upgrades in the engine room compartment ?\"\r\n\r\nSimple answer: no adjustments or modifications have been made as both figures reflect the same state of tune and power rating.\r\n\r\nThe M100 engine, used in both the W-100 600 model and the W-109 300 SEL 6.3 model, was rated at 300 hp @ 4100 rpm and 434 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm of torque, both using the SAE gross power measurement standard, used in the U.S. on Mercedes cars up to and including the 1972 model year. \r\n\r\nIn Europe, where the DIN standard of power measurement was used, it was rated at 250 PS @ 4000 rpm and 369 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm of torque.\r\n\r\nKeep in mind that DIN is very similar to SAE net, which Mercedes started using in the U.S. from 1973, and PS is the metric horsepower unit used in most of Europe. The conversion from PS to English-system hp used in the U.S. is 1 PS = 0.98632 hp. Whereas changing from PS to hp is a simple conversion of units, similar to converting from kg to lb, or Nm to lb-ft, there is no mathematical conversion from SAE gross to SAE net or DIN.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1591623393, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624128, "authorName": "Rovercar", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rovercar/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "So, does this qualify as \"der grosser Mercedes\" or did these come in more than one wheelbase? To me, these are really the ultimate limousine. I'd put it above even Rolls Royce, but I grew up watching the original 60's \"Mission Impossible\" tv show.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591623715, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624137, "authorName": "Rovercar", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rovercar/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@63impalaboy I know that you appreciate this automobile and are not bashing it, but I have never considered these to be \"ugly\" by any use of that word. I would say that the styling could definitely be said to be formal.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591623879, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624161, "authorName": "MrcBnz55", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrcbnz55/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors\r\n\r\nThis is a magnificent car, and thanks for bringing to auction here.\r\nYou mentioned this is a very late U.S. model that includes emissions controls. I know that by 1972, the 300 SEL 6.3 was no longer sold in the U.S., but 1972 was the last year for the U.S.-model 600. With emission controls, did the engine in this car come with a lower compression ratio than until the 1971 model? If so, did Mercedes list a different power and torque rating for this car? Jim Luikens, in the \"Standard Catalog of Mercedes-Benz\" book claims a lowered compression ratio of 8:1 and power and torque ratings (in SAE gross) of 270 hp @ 4200 rpm and 370 lb-ft @ 2900 rpm. I have never seen those figures anywhere else. Does the car have a 1972 specific owners manual with specs in the back that can confirm any of this?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591624249, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624233, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors @Jim_rosenthal @West-Coaster Jim you are correct that the two systems are not connected. The shocks are not \"normal hydraulic\" but adjustable hydraulic from a level on the steering column which can control the ride by filling the shocks with hydraulic fluid. This is part of the one hydraulic system that operates all the moving parts on the cars which has its own pump with and single fan belt under the A/C compressor which has its own two fan belts. The air system which operates the ride height of the vehicles is completely separate from the hydraulic system which is pressurized by a different pump in front of the power steering and its own two fan belts. Then the alternator has its own fan belt fan belt. Total 6 belts. Each system operates separately and has its own belts which is nice if a certain belt fails. Perhaps Neil could correct me if i'm wrong.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591625926, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624250, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I get a headache just thinking about all that stuff whirling around down there...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591626202, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624255, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "LOL i just went and looked, there are 7 belts.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591626313, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624355, "authorName": "Siowner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/siowner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This looks like a really well cared for example of a 600. Black is probably the best and most common colour for these cars. I think I remember seeing a silver one and a dark red one. These cars always draw a lot of attention when they're being driven. The Pullman model especially is a real sight to see.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591627940, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624643, "authorName": "hoggjtx", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hoggjtx/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Love the car. I've always heard that they were built for countries to maintain, not individuals! I roughly added $118,000 in repair receipts since '91 (avg $4000/yr). What experiences have other long time owners of the 600 experienced? Thank you! John", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591632972, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624781, "authorName": "RevRory", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/revrory/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have the factory workshhop manual for this car (and for a 300SL too) if the new owner needs one.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591634800, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624853, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@hoggjtx I have owned my Pullman since 1997. It doesn't get driven very much but I have spent less than 18,000 on it in 23 years and it was driven from Essex MA to Toronto when I bought it at Paul Russell's and its been driven to Woxall PA and back all trouble free. It has been sitting in the same place since early December and is still holding its ride height. Every car is different but this one seems to have had, in MHO unusual cash spent on it.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591636008, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4624972, "authorName": "BarneyFife", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/barneyfife/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Love that second driving video with the horn - I live by a CSX freight line and our town has 3 crossings. The engineers lean on their horns all hours of the night. If I could have this for just a day I'd park close to the tracks and answer every one of their blasts just to freak them out.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591637730, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4626432, "authorName": "Marwan351", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/marwan351/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I would love to find out how different it is from the Pullman, I am looking now for a clean 600 as the pullman is not easy to drive around.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591646960, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4626986, "authorName": "fka_ray", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fka_ray/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "....@agalati4.....only been 48 years, so that's still classified, lol......but I did know Vinko well....over the years he probably bought and sold at least one of every now collectible model listed on BaT, and 10 of some......often wonder what he would have made of BaT, but \"mano a mano\" was really more his style.....RIP, Vinko...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591649816, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627041, "authorName": "fka_ray", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fka_ray/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "....@Gregpryckman.......7 belts ?........no wonder Klaus Bytzek is rolling in royalties...(patent holder/inventor of modern automotive serpentine belt systems)....", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591650224, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627259, "authorName": "917-12", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/917-12/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bid, only if you have a third-world army to back it up...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591651508, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627309, "authorName": "agalati4", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/agalati4/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@fka_ray Vinko (RIP) was way before my time but my father has told me all sorts of stories-- I'm not an early Benz cognoscenti but I'm pretty sure that's a 600 sitting in his outdoor lot amongst a Silver Shadow and a Miura back in the day: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/95/3c/0c/953c0c0a465d0b4aea78ee86b0b9d698.jpg", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591651818, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627556, "authorName": "Grimsby", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/grimsby/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Whatever it will cost to buy this spectacular car, it's a bargain compared to restoring one to this level. If you want one, buy one already finished but set aside a few thousand dollars a year for maintenance and find a skilled mechanic. Take it to him every spring and pay him whatever he wants for whatever he needs to do. Letting this car unwind will be the single most expensive thing you can do this side of sending a kid to Harvard for four years.\r\n\r\nShockingly expensive to own, but oh what a ride!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591655359, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627599, "authorName": "AVd", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/avd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These cars are so cool, but what the heck do you do with them? There's one parked where I store my M3 in the winter that I don't think has moved in ten years.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591656303, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627622, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@agalati4 @fka_ray I both bought and sold cars to Vinko. You\u2019re showing my age. That\u2019s Dundas St I believe.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591656951, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4627786, "authorName": "fka_ray", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fka_ray/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": ".......or \"Dundasstrasse\" as Vinko was wont to call it......I noticed that you are also commenting/bidding on a black '64 220SE coupe here on BaT.......by remarkable coincidence, there seems to be it's twin at the rear in @agalati4's wonderful photo....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591660062, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4628104, "authorName": "RPChan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rpchan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I own a silver 1972 that I purchased from my brother nine years ago. He looked for years for what he thought was the finest 600 available and found the one I have. It had been serviced by Star Motors in the 2002 timeframe when it was still owned (I believe) by the family of the original buyer. I put 400 or 500 miles on it each year driving it for special events or for the weddings for some of my friends children. It is hard to believe what a great ride this car provides. I could comfortably drive it at distance. My longest day in it was just over 500 miles. Great car but only 8 mpg. Glad it has a 30+ gallon tank. GLWS!\n\nOh yeah, from my perspective Neil and Star Motors is the foremost authority of these cars. Always helpful.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591666846, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4628776, "authorName": "63impalaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/63impalaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@rovercar\r\nNo, Rover, it is ugly. It would be difficult to house all that substance in a beautifully sculpted body. MB was never a pioneer in aesthetics though a few models were graceful. What MB concentrated upon was building the best cars that could be built and sold and they did just that for a long time, until other makers caught up. In this period however no automobile was as well engineered or built. Compare a RR Cloud to this machine.\r\n\r\nDanny Plotkin", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591706500, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4628854, "authorName": "zachmac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zachmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "There are certain events / committments in life that one should never enter into lightly; marriage, having children, purchasing a home all come to mind. I would have to include acquisition of one of these on the list. These are serious automobiles intended for well heeled, serious owners. That said, I can't conjure a better vetted situation than the one presented if one is so inclined. GLWA\n\n@63impalaboy- beauty is in the eye of the beholder and for many of us engineering excellence and durability are beautiful.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591707938, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4630002, "authorName": "63impalaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/63impalaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@zachmac\r\nThe fellow below did not make your point nor did you make his. My point is that I find the car devoid of style. Its substance more than makes up for it. You can appreciate the car without being in love with its style. With many other cars it is quite the other way around. \r\n\r\nDanny Plotkin", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591723501, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4630201, "authorName": "63impalaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/63impalaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Those who appreciate what might be the finest automobile built in the mid century may find the July 1965 Car and Driver comparison a good read. You will find confirmed that which you know or suspect of the 600 as well as what you might not have known about the cars with which it competed for affection and buyers. See it here:\r\n https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/vintage-reviews/six-luxury-cars-a-car-and-driver-test-from-1965-with-some-cc-pictures/\r\n\r\nDanny Plotkin", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591725598, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4632707, "authorName": "zachmac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zachmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@63impalaboy - you stated \"MB was never a pioneer in aesthetics\". Can you say 500k, gullwing, original racing SLR? really, NEVER a pioneer in aesthetics? \n\nWe can agree to disagree. Although of course that was not the case with this model. As you point out it was built to house all that glorious machinery underneath.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591739525, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4632774, "authorName": "zachmac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zachmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@63impalaboy - also thank you BTW for the link to the old article. A fascinating and fun read.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591740681, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4632910, "authorName": "Romy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/romy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The fact that Idi Amin Dada had one is worth having this as a conversation piece.\r\nWatch the film Raid on Entebbe for more details.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591742580, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4632925, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good Evening folks, we will be posting a video off the function of the climate control system on this late 600. The heater and air conditioning system will be covered. thank you", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591742916, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4634050, "authorName": "Aqeel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/aqeel/", "bidAmount": 65500, "content": "$65,500 bid placed by Aqeel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591779803, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4634168, "authorName": "Gregpryckman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gregpryckman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors Are you able to give us a guesstimate on what it would cost to change the cracked air suspension bags including labour?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591791000, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4634358, "authorName": "63impalaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/63impalaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@zachmac\r\nI could tell from here you would enjoy it. My collection is largely big American cars so I found it interesting that the Cadillac was second only to the 600. When was the last time any auto journalist wrote...\"confirmed to our full satisfaction that (the 600) is the finest car in the world...\"\r\n\r\nDanny Plotkin", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591795050, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4634810, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 66000, "content": "$66,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591801829, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4634819, "authorName": "Aqeel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/aqeel/", "bidAmount": 66666, "content": "$66,666 bid placed by Aqeel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591801894, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4635357, "authorName": "G2Z", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/g2z/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@berfinroy Thank you for the informative answers to users' questions, but next time, please just answer the questions using as few words as possible.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591808761, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635337, "authorName": "berfinroy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/berfinroy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Gregpryckman. There is at least one company that purports to make \"Roser\" style leathers exactly like Mercedes used in the 1960s and into the 1970s including \"cognac\". However, the original Roser cognac used a two-tone process whereby the darker color was apparently stenciled onto the lighter base color. Over time, the darker dappling would rub off of high friction areas like the left side driver's seat bolster. (Ask how I know) The \"new Roser\" process maker also says its cognac is two-tone, but the small sample picture I have seen on line is too small to really tell. One would have to compare a sample to a well preserved original. @starmotors. I think the replacement leather used on this car would more properly be called \"bamboo\", would it not?\n@jim_rosenthal. I have not driven or ridden in a 600, but I have owned a Citroen licensed hydropneumaticly 450SEL 6.9 and currently a 300SEL with virtually the same Bosch air suspension system, and can report that I found the hydropneumatic system to be no better than the air system in terms of ride quality, though other suspension improvements to the W116 chassis may have given the 6.9 a modest edge in handling. The 600's ride, I would think, would be better still due to its longer wheelbase.\n The main advantage of the hydropneumatic system was that it was a closed system that adjusted by pumping hydraulic fluid to the underside of a bladder that a constant quantity of nitrogen gas on the other side. whereas the air system was periodically introducing ambient air into the system with its inherent moisture and possible other impurities. It might be of interest to know that Bosch paid GENERAL MOTORS to use several of the patents they had developed in building the air suspension the developed for some Cadillac cars in the late 1950s! Bosch studied GM's work to see what it had done wrong (GM's system was seriously flawed and unreliable), as well as what it had done right. They fixed the flaws and paid for the right to use the good stuff.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591808792, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635391, "authorName": "berfinroy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/berfinroy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@G2Z. Forgive me, G2, but it appears to me that BAT's \"comments\" section has not been restricted solely to asking or answering specific questions about proffered cars. Perhaps you should appeal to BAT to issue a directive to that effect and see how that goes.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591809179, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635399, "authorName": "G2Z", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/g2z/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "No problem. I did enjoy the info you posted; don't get me wrong.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591809306, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635440, "authorName": "zachmac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zachmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If you all haven't availed yourselves of the article @63Impalaboy linked you should. I found it particularly indicative that it was written in 1965 when one of their major complaints about the 600 was that it was hard for smokers to readily locate the ashtrays. My how times have changed.\n\nEqually interesting was that in 1965 the 2nd place Cadillac was ~$8300 the 600 was $20,500. But ask yourself which one is still around AND fetching much more than it's original price today?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591810097, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635528, "authorName": "BenzFan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/benzfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi @63impalaboy, I would also point out that no Cadillac will ever be worth what the MBs listed in @zachmac's previous post are worth now and in the future. MB 600s are amazing cars and I wish the new owner of the fine example in this auction many happy years of ownership.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591810831, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635698, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@berfinroy, I have not driven a 450SEL 6.9, or, if I have, I don't recall it. I think their system is similar to Citroen's, is it not? I am familiar with that because I have a DS.. amazing suspension. \r\n\r\nWhat I recall about the 116 chassis versus the 109 was that both ends of the suspension were redesigned completely and were felt to be much better. As far as the styling goes, the 109 looks much better to me. \r\n\r\nI dimly recall the C/D article, but I am going to enjoy refreshing my memory, right now. :)", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591812338, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635714, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Just for that, I'm going to nominate @berfinroy for 2020 Commenter Of The Year.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591812397, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4635906, "authorName": "berfinroy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/berfinroy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@jim_rosenthal. It would appear that G2Z has taken his revenge.\r\nAnyway, yes, Mercedes had to obtain a license from Citroen to produce their version of a hydropneumatic suspension.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591813630, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4636070, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Also, about the styling of these cars: I think describing it as a brick is not fair, but I love Mercedes cars in general and this era, many styled by Bracq, in particular. A Checker looks like a brick, to me. I think the 600 is still graceful and well-proportioned, although it doesn't have the classic grace of, say, a RR. But it is a MUCH better automobile. The W100 cars looked a lot like the W108/109s, which are often admired for their styling. I think the styling of the 600 is of a piece with its engineering and execution- a very luxurious car which also had very high-performance, for the head of state or dictator who had multiples of everything. Oh, and the Pope, too, I think.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591814644, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4636096, "authorName": "berfinroy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/berfinroy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@G2Z. My apologies. I thought BAT had taken my post down as a result of your comments about it. I'm old, and my acuity is slipping.....", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591814847, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4638114, "authorName": "63impalaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/63impalaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BenzFan\nI don't get hepped up on what cars are worth. I am a collector and not an investor. But you are correct. So far anyway. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for certain low production Eldorado Broughams from 57 through 60. These have appreciated wildly over the years. I understand they are incomparable to the 600 but the 59 and 60 cars were hand built in Italy. \n\nAnd lets face it, the 600 has as much sex appeal as a fire-safe which in many ways is exactly what it is. Not that long ago few were interested in these, they were viewed with the same curiosity as say a mid 60's IBM mainframe. Really big, really neat but not so much anything else. \n\nAs with many expensive, leading edge breakthrough and exceedingly complicated luxury cars they are prohibitively expensive to restore. The Cadillac Broughams face a similar headwind and so not a lot of either are available.\n\nIf I had to have one of these, I 'd buy this one. \n\nGood luck to the seller, and to you MB guys, I am not one of you, but I get it. No car was ever better built, even now. \n\nDanny Plotkin", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591825672, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4638534, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hello folks, @Gregpryckman question on cost of the air bellows. The are sold as a complete chamber, pressure tested the cost per chamber complete is $850. the cost of the parts are $850 x4=$2000 for parts, labor is about 6 hours to do all 4. approximately $2600 parts and labor total. @benfinroy I have the old leather for the seats and the GAHH seats were listed as Cognac but are darker. The Huber Roser leather from GAHH which emulates the Roser is a better match but the passenger seat on this car was in excellent condition and does not match the Huber Rosser leather. We had to replace both to match. As for the comment about GM licensing the Bosch air suspension system that is very interesting. The original Air bellows on the late 1950 cars were Firestone/Phoenix thus some American involvement. The first truly first functional Bosch designed air suspension system was the Borgward Isabella. This car used the Bosch LF/VNB system self leveling system. This was a very advanced system for a production car and beat Mercedes to the technical punch as so much that Mercedes put them out of business.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591832446, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4638676, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bad math on the chambers $850 x 4=$3400 plus labor now $4000", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591835216, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4638871, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@zachmac @63impalaboy \u2013 you stated \u201cMB was never a pioneer in aesthetics\u201d. Can you say 500k, gullwing, original racing SLR? really, NEVER a pioneer in aesthetics\r\n\r\nAgree with Zachmac. Not to forget the 1928 710 SSK Roadster, 1934 W25 Silver Arrow, 1936 540K Spezial Roadster, 1939 770K Grosser, 1955 190SL, 1970 C-111, 1979 G-wagon,1997 CLK GTR, 2003 SLR McLaren, plus more. \r\nSo, is Mercedes Benz really \u201cnever a pioneer\u201d in design aesthetics??? \r\nThe facts are there. Those who don\u2019t know remain ignorant.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591838502, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4638875, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 68000, "content": "$68,000 bid placed by F01", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591838600, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4639405, "authorName": "915fan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/915fan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"MB was never a pioneer in aesthetics...\"\n\nLol at a comment like that from someone with the handle @63impalaboy. I mean, you might have a point if we ignored the Pagoda, 280SE/L sedan, 280SE Coupe and Cab, and \"S-classes from the 80s\" (since the body codes of W126/C126 wouldn't mean much to you). \n\nBut here are some things you might get. How about the grille on a '74 Chevy Chevelle? Or the entire Ford Granada car? The Chrysler K-car, perhaps? \n\nThe very definition of \"pioneer\" is when everyone copies you. Yes, boxy can be attractive but then again you probably don't like the gen 1 Seville either.", "likes": 12, "timestamp": 1591855273, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4640035, "authorName": "TAG", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tag/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "NYC in the 70's -- the city was crumbling but the tax code still allowed for company cars and drivers. I spent a lot of time in the back on one of these .... I'm not sure what you do with one today?\r\n\r\nLook at it? \r\n\r\nFrankly -- still remember the mid 60's Fleetwoods. 65's being the best ...loved playing with the 4 quarter windows. The driver door was like a command center.\r\n\r\nThe hydraulics on the 600's (windows/roof/seat) were always problematic ... not that the windows or roof was ever open. They do have \"presence\" ... my guess is the olive is really cool. As were the blue and battleship gray ... in NYC the black ones were livery", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591885548, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4640155, "authorName": "Aqeel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/aqeel/", "bidAmount": 68888, "content": "$68,888 bid placed by Aqeel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591887569, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4640833, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@TAG your comments are right on. Spoken like someone with experience in a 600 in their day when services and parts were readily available at the service department of any MB dealership. I grew up in one and it was always chauffeur driven, just like what the 600 was meant to be enjoyed. As much as any young boy would enjoy riding shotgun, I prefer riding in the back seat in the 600. And mostly did... The view from there is spectacular and the hood ornament seem to be half a mile away from the back seat. Just the best of the best limousine made. The over-engineered little things were bothersome but they were nothing a deep pocket couldn\u2019t fix. For those who can afford to keep this beast on the road, it\u2019s the best back seat ride money can buy.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1591896791, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4642105, "authorName": "TAG", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tag/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "F01: Still see those wet NYC streets -- sound of the engine and the funny mechanical noise the wipers made .. plus -- wiper delay made a \"click\". We did not have the second control on the back seat as this one.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591906375, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4643952, "authorName": "SirBradford", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sirbradford/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I bought one of these in dark blue, brand-new (Corgi) and have wanted a real one ever since. They used to be $25,000 for a nice one 25-30 years ago. I would imagine this beauty will be multiples of that.\r\nGL", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591924485, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644138, "authorName": "KM_AXer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/km_axer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Such a cool ride.... Brings me back to the Pullman that Rocky Aoki used for One Lap of America in 1989. This is one sweet automobile.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591928386, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644240, "authorName": "Slim67", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/slim67/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I love this car but as far as styling I prefer the car my mom chauffeured us in .1960 Caddilac Coupe Dr Ville. It only had 2 doors but that's STYLING", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591930749, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644253, "authorName": "gtr9229", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gtr9229/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "KM_AXer .....that's some arcane auto history. Did Mr. Aoki complete the race in his 66 Pullman?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591930917, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644303, "authorName": "KM_AXer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/km_axer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@gtr9229 Sometimes, file cabinets in the mind's warehouse pop open when something triggers a latch, like a remote control. This 600 performed as a facilitator. I watched this recounting shortly after it was posted, because a friend sent me the link:\r\nhttps://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=search&v=567088770509255&external_log_id=a8017d72-f08f-483d-a25c-46703df25bad&q=one%20lap%20of%20america\r\n\r\nYes, I am in some of the footage too....\r\n\r\nAbout the Benz, something which absolutely had me convinced that Rocky was the \"Real Deal\" adrenaline enthusiast, with a \"Never give up\" attitude: The car had some sort of transmission trouble fairly early, which took a bit of time to rectify. Rocky and crew somehow Caught Up with the trans-continental speeding group, and finished out the event. At least, that is how I remember it....", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591932174, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644365, "authorName": "gtr9229", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gtr9229/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/km_axer/ That's fascinating...thank you", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591934159, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644399, "authorName": "BenzFan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/benzfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sorry @63impalaboy but my engineer father always taught me to pay attention to what's under the hood of a car and not what it looks like because looks will get you know where if the car doesn't run. He never bought a car based on how it looked. I'll take the timeless classic design as in world renowned designer Bruno Sacco among other MB designers plus the over engineering of MB any day over the fad styling, poor quality build of GM any day. Cadillacs are nothing more than fancy Chevys. The car in this auction is a solid example of timeless styling and over engineered MB build quality. I hope it goes to a good MB enthusiast's home who will appreciate those qualities and love it for what it is.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591935264, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644832, "authorName": "zachmac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zachmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "All, it was not my intention to gang up on @63impalaboy. His comments seem respectful and he did provide a nice period link. Let's all play nice as I think we've made the point that we disagree about the MB styling prowess when they applied it. Back to talking about this car! A very nice example that should do well. BTW, I ALSO like 1963 Impalas. I like ALL things automotive.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591966160, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4644933, "authorName": "berfinroy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/berfinroy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Rudolph Uhlenhaut was given a free hand to build the best that he conceive. By all accounts, then and now, he succeeded masterfully. My 300SEL 4.5 provides much of the driving, construction and materials qualities of the 600, but no where near the \"presence\".\nWould that I could....or rather, that my wife of 51 years would permit.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591968005, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4645005, "authorName": "paul-NL", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul-nl/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "There is no SA-Code 48/0 on the datacard, but list as SA-Code 48/- means NOT PRESENT .. It is listed as not present, because all 600 are equiped with selfleveling suspension. So there was no EXTRA Sonder Ausstattung 48/0 for the 600 auvailable ..", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591969106, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4645394, "authorName": "paul-NL", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul-nl/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In the field \"Hinweis\" is code (99)2 mentioned, which means there are additional uncoded extra's mentioned on the belonging productionorder I . These are Client Wishes for which no standard SA-Codes excisted ..", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591975122, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4645710, "authorName": "TobinMotorWorks", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tobinmotorworks/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "No doubt these are incredible machines... and actually quite fun to drive. I was tasked with selling a 'driver quality' 600 for the family of a deceased gentleman a few years ago. Service / restoration receipts from his 15 years of ownership added up to about $98,000 and that didn't include the complete engine out, glass out, all apart repaint (from Tunis Beige to Black). EVERYTHING on these cars is super-sized... the Mercedes star on the trunk, 2/3 larger than any of its Mercedes contemporaries. You just feel like a bad ass when you're in one of these.. whether you're driving or sitting in the back seat.", "likes": 11, "timestamp": 1591979791, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4645947, "authorName": "treetrimmer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/treetrimmer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Whoever cares for this beauty could not even be bothered to get the star in the center of the steering wheel straight? You\u2019re only looking at it the whole time you\u2019re behind the wheel...\r\n\r\nOtherwise, absolutely gorgeous 600.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591983393, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4645962, "authorName": "zgthom1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zgthom1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The 600 is president of the \"they don't build them like they used to\" club. Gorgeous car.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1591983590, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4645976, "authorName": "915fan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/915fan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@zachmac Yes, let's get back to talking about the auction car.\n\nI\u2019ve always thought the Mercedes 600 was good looking, especially for being a limo. The best looking vehicle in a manufacturer's line-up is typically the premium coupe, not the more expensive limo. As attractive as the 1962 Cadillac was as a sleek Coupe de Ville, it made a terrible looking limousine \u2014 the fins, especially the lower \u201cskegs,\u201d looked ridiculous with the taller, longer and more boxy roofline.\n\nThe Rolls-Royce limo looked pretty much the same as the Mercedes 600; both were all about interior space, ease of entry/exit and presence. The very best looking limos were from Lincoln and it was no surprise the stylish Kennedys dropped the old-fashioned Cadillac in favor of the Lincoln in 1961. \n\nThe \u201969-'70 Cadillac made for a very handsome limousine, in my opinion. The \u201971-76 did not as the sides had puffed too much, like on the Fuselage Chryslers. The best looking Cadillac limos were from the 1980s as those significantly benefited from the donor car\u2019s slab sides and formal roofline. Once again, you saw another stylish POTUS change the brand of the presidential limousine, this time from Lincoln to Cadillac. (Plus Nancy thought the Lincoln was unlucky after Hinckley's assassination attempt). \n\nAlong the same lines, the 1990s Lincoln Town Car made a terrific looking limo. With today\u2019s blobby car designs, no sedan-based limos look right \u2014 they've all gone full-sized SUV, which looks better and offers easier entry/exit. Interestingly you sit up about as high as you did in the Mercedes 600.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1591984102, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4646042, "authorName": "MB280", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mb280/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@berfinroy, you have nothing to apologize for- your original post was excellent.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591984353, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4646199, "authorName": "carhop", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carhop/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I always wanted one of these to travel in when the kids were little. Stick them in the back and just raise that center window whenever I needed a little communion with the road. Never pulled the trigger though, because I knew I'd get tired of telling people I didn't have any &#@*%# Grey Poupon", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591985331, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4646298, "authorName": "FlatbushAve", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/flatbushave/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I like that it took nearly two minutes for the drive-by...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1591986017, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4647566, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hello there, thank you for the great comments and reads. An great observation by @treetrimmer, the steering wheel star is upside down while we were driving. The 600 steering wheel is telescopically adjustable by turning the steering wheel pad counterclockwise to unlock it. It was not tightened down and we turned the pad clockwise to lock it and now it is straight.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1591994887, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4647867, "authorName": "DoubleR", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/doubler/", "bidAmount": 70000, "content": "$70,000 bid placed by DoubleR", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1591996994, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4648387, "authorName": "zachmac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zachmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Be careful not to honk the horn near a railroad crossing lest you cause a traffic jam while folks wait for the locomotive to come by. About the same presence and tonnage. GLWA", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1592007219, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4648416, "authorName": "fka_ray", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fka_ray/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": ".....@starmotors......having the star and the column correctly locked in place is no doubt aesthetically pleasing, but may have taken some of the excitement out of the driving experience, lol............also wonder how many owners never realized it had the feature.......that was known to happen on 70's Ford vehicles where the tilt wheel function was incorporated into the delicate-looking turn signal stalk .....never having used the feature, some owners would return the car after dealer servicing and complain about the \"bent\" steering column....", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592007857, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4648724, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@fka_ray Very interesting comment about the steering wheel and how true about the Ford. Many of he 600 owners probably never new about the high level function on the car suspension, the fast idle knob a/c knob (second left from air suspension knob) to increase cooling while waiting for the client. This knob locked the steering column so the car would not be placed in to gear with out disengaging the switch. Window safety feature (passive) on later cars prevented the windows from being operated hydraulically unless key was in the ignition to the \"on\" position.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592015488, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4649881, "authorName": "RiffRaff", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/riffraff/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bring-a-Third World Dictator. Beauty. GL.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592067260, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4650465, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Videos demonstrating the central locking and the climate control have been added to the listing.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592082977, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4650665, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hello Folks, \r\n\r\nI have added two videos, one for the 600 Gleason climate control system and one for the 600 central locking system. \r\n\r\nHere\u2019s a little backstory for the Gleason climate control system. Some time ago on one hot mid-summer day in 1967, comedian Jackie Gleason picked up three Mercedes-Benz executives at Miami International Airport. Of course, Jackie was cool and relaxed with a vodka in hand. The three executives entered his 600, one up front and two in the back. As they settled in, Jackie asked the front seat passenger if he was cool enough. He replied, \u201cYes.\u201d Then he asked the back seat passengers the same. They replied \u201cYes\u201d as well. He looked back and again asked the back seat passengers, who were perspiring, if they were cool enough. Politely, they replied, \u201cYes.\u201d He then said that he would offer them a cool drink, but there was no bar in the car. He followed that remark up with what he considered a great idea. If there was a bar in the car everyone could enjoy a cold drink and if cold air blew toward the rear seats, those passengers would be comfortably cool. \r\n\r\nThe Mercedes executives paused for a moment to consider Jackie\u2019s ideas. It wasn\u2019t long before the Gleason unit appeared in the 600 from chassis number 990 on beginning in 1968. This modification is documented twice in the 600 workshop manual in the footnotes. I had heard a rumor about this story, which was verified by Peter Schellhammer, Mercedes-Benz Factory Representative for worldwide training of the 600, at a dinner in Ithaca, NY, in 2008. \r\n\r\nMr. Schellhammer was our invited guest speaker at an M100 club event. I asked him if there was any truth about Jackie Gleason being responsible for the climate control system. Schellhammer confirmed it. He said that when the Mercedes-Benz executives returned to headquarters he was informed they were going to change the design of the climate control system. Schellhammer said they had made a mistake in the early cars by putting an A/C rear evaporator in the trunk that blew cold air on the feet. They had mistakenly predicted the cool air would rise to torso level in the rear, thus producing a cooling effect that would be felt by the backseat passengers. They had to redesign the A/C system and add a third blower in the front, add the bar to the center console, and eliminate the rear evaporator. A controller was added to the rear enabling rear passengers to control the A/C as well (as demonstrated in the video). Who says Mercedes-Benz did not have a little humor.\r\n\r\nAs for the central locking video, all 600s had central locking and this vacuum locking system was used on W109, W111 and many other models. This 600 model with an additional locking system were outfitted with a safety function that prevented the windows from operating unless the key was in the \u201con\u201d position.", "likes": 20, "timestamp": 1592089685, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4651203, "authorName": "spendyboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/spendyboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Can't you just picture driving this right past the Stasi through check point Charlie? Room for3 or 4 East Germans fleeing the DDR concealed in its plush upholstery and trunk? \r\n\r\nWould anyone pay this much for East Germany's Trabant?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592120282, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4651353, "authorName": "rickambrose", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rickambrose/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "About a decade ago, a well-to-do acquaintance who had so much money his \"excrement did not parfum\" asked me to be his chauffeur for an evening out in his recently Mercedes Classic Center restored 600 SWB. Naturally I jumped at this non-paying servitude just to experience this car. Frankly it drove like a 1960's Lincoln Continental, which was a very good thing. The cost of the restoration rivaled the price of the average American 3 bedroom home, but it was stunning.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1592139122, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4651827, "authorName": "cyclemikey", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cyclemikey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@F01: \"The facts are there. Those who don\u2019t know remain ignorant.\" \"I grew up in one and it was always chauffeur driven\"\r\n\r\nOh my. Why, yes - yes you did, and yes it was. And it's lovely of you to grace us here on BaT with your comments.\r\n\r\n@BenzFan: \"...a solid example of timeless styling and over engineered MB build quality. \"\r\n\r\nIt's a sumptuous automobile, and in my view the aesthetics are perfectly suited to it. It's clearly in a different league than some of the cars it's being compared to here. Having said that, excellence in engineering and build quality is generally taken to imply that the product, whatever it is, will not require constant and excessive injections of cash over its lifetime in order to reliably maintain the basic functionality for which it was designed; i.e., transporting passengers in comfort and being available for that duty whenever desired. This is particularly relevant in drawing comparisons with the cost of maintenance of competitive and, presumably, less well-engineered products of lesser build quality and lower initial cost.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592152006, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4651954, "authorName": "DPC33", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dpc33/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have just spent the last hour of my Sunday morning reading all the comments and war stories about this really distinguished vehicle. Asa 50 year owner of Mercedes autos and collecter, I have never seen a 600 up close and personal. They are more scarce than the gullwings we all love. Is it Beautiful? I don't think that's a proper description, however, I don't think that any of us cannot call it classic. That said, I've enjoyed the discussion. You'all have a nice day and GLWTA.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592154978, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652066, "authorName": "BenzFan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/benzfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi @cyclemikey, I would counter by saying that the 600 is not built on the platform of a less expensive model as are the cars it's being compared to and I would also point out that the technology found in the 600 is far more advanced and complex than the cars it's being compared to. The 600 isn't in the same league as the cars it's being compared to by some in this thread. Hi @DPC33, I've been lucky enough to see a 600 as I used to know someone who owned one. They are magnificent in their own way. I also admit that I do love the Gullwing as well.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592158074, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652140, "authorName": "Southfloridamp", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/southfloridamp/", "bidAmount": 70500, "content": "$70,500 bid placed by Southfloridamp", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592160477, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4652222, "authorName": "Mart_Emeness", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mart_emeness/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I just saw the picture of window sticker in the photo \r\ngallery and noted the original 33,035 dollar price. \r\nWow! In 1972 that was an absolutely astronomical \r\nprice for a car! To put that price in 1972 terms, in \r\nOct. 1972, my late father special ordered a new, fully \r\nloaded, 1973 454-powered 3/4 ton GMC Silverado \r\npick-up with just about every possible option. The \r\ntotal price was just a bit over 7,000 dollars. When \r\nhe took delivery of his new truck the selling dealer \r\ncommented that it was the most fully loaded and \r\nthus also the most expensive pick-up truck they had \r\never sold. In comparison, the money required to buy \r\na 600 Mercedes like this one in 1972 would have \r\nbought about five fully loaded 7000-plus dollar pick-up \r\ntrucks similar to my dad's! Now figure for 2020, that a \r\nnew, similarly spec'd and loaded pick-up truck like that \r\nwould go for *at least* 70 or 80 thousand dollars and \r\npossibly a bit more even. Now multiply that price by \r\nfive and the ask for a 2020 new car that would be the \r\nequivalent of a Mercedes 600 would be somewhere in \r\nexcess of 350 to 400 thousand dollars!!!\r\n\r\nhttps://bringatrailer.com/listing/1972-mercedes-benz-600-3/\r\n===========================", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592162866, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652324, "authorName": "Bjh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bjh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I assume everything is operating as intended on the car except for the radio in back. Is that correct ?\r\n\r\nThe car seems be running a little rough but I am no expert on these cars. I have a 280 SE cab that has a smaller engine and runs much smoother so I pose the question. \r\n\r\nLove the car and have 2 friends that have owned one and I think it may be time for me to own one. \r\n\r\nThx", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592166249, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652400, "authorName": "Omnivore", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/omnivore/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Observations on 600 aesthetics are interesting but misguided. \r\nThe Teutonic \u2018form always follows function\u2019 is merely a jumping-off point here. \r\n\u2018Projection of power\u2019 is more apt. \r\nAn aircraft carrier could be an analog:\r\na big empty floating runway devoid of anything resembling style or beauty. \r\nAll the muscle, fearsome technology and expertise are hidden below deck.\r\nHowever, everyone knows it\u2019s down there and that they best defer to that power.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592169522, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652393, "authorName": "TheRealDexter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/therealdexter/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "First introduced to the 600 Pullmans growing up in L.A. Hugh Hefner had several of these and structured tax write offs by opening a limousine service. However the vehicles didn\u2019t get out much and were parked near my family\u2019s home, over on Wilshire Blvd. A week wouldn\u2019t go by without me visiting these wonderful vehicles.\n\n The Playboy logo was placed on rear doors.\n\nAs for cost in 1972; to give it some perspective, average homes during this period in metro L.A. were $27,000 - $30,000", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592169674, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652475, "authorName": "EDM", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/edm/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Having been a Mercedes-Benz mechanic for 40+ years I can say that the car on offer here is exactly how I would want to find one. Star Motors knows these as well as anyone. I owned a \u201869 600 (vin#1366) in this exact color combo for ten years and it was a delightful and reliable car to own. During my ownership I didn\u2019t have to make any repairs to the air suspension, vacuum door locks or A/C. When my nitrogen filled hydraulic pressure reservoir failed to hold pressure I converted it to the later style reservoir used on the W116 6.9 for a fraction of the cost. To any potential bidder, my advice would be to find a competent mechanic to help you keep on top of the hydraulic and air systems and the rest is fairly doable for the DIY owner.", "likes": 16, "timestamp": 1592172220, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652630, "authorName": "Omnivore", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/omnivore/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "$33000 in 1972 dollars is $202000 today. A new Maybach fully optioned is roughly the same money. \nI would bet BITD MB operated on a narrower margin than currently. A modern car built to the 600\u2019s standard would likely be in the $3-4 hundred thousand realm.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592179088, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652671, "authorName": "915fan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/915fan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"The Teutonic form always follows function\u2026\"\n\nIt wasn\u2019t always that way and certainly isn't today. Mercedes learned the hard way about pandering to US tastes with embellishments like tail-fins. The stiff, and cartoonish, 1961 W110 \u201cFintail\u201d sedan sold poorly and was replaced by two new models, the 1965 W108 and 1968 W114. \n\nBoth departed from the stodgy, upright direction of their predecessor and were seen as sleek, modern, and efficient. The W108 inspired several domestic models, including the 1975 Granada. \n\nIn 1971 Mercedes took \"functional design\" \u2014 this time with more emphasis on aerodynamics and safety \u2014 to a brand-defining level with the R107 SL and C107 SLC. Before long, everyone was knocking off MB's aero side-mirrors, amber front corner turn indicators and oversized taillights. The first competitor to blatantly copy MB's new look was Ford with the 1979 Mustang notchback, a beautiful design heavily influenced by the eight-year-old 350SLC in profile view. \n\nAero went mainstream in the 1980s, and Mercedes lead the way. The 1980 W126 S-Class was the first car with a \"high rear deck,\" four years before we saw it on a Ford Thunderbird or bubble Audi 5000. Toyota had no shame when it came to the 1990 Lexus LS400 \u2014 it was a rip-off of the then ten-year-old Mercedes design. Even Cadillac got into the act adding bodyside cladding (remember that?) to its 13-year-old Brougham in 1990.\n\nAs modern as the W126 looked, the W201 190E that came next blew my mind. Not only a high deck but also a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and long, glassy upper. I bet the BMW designers crapped their pants when they saw the 190E because the 1990 E36 3-series, which arrived six years later, was a near carbon copy. \n\nAfter learning its lesson from the Fintail experience, which was about copying not leading, Mercedes became a design pioneer. From the mid-1960s through the early 1980s, their designs influenced the industry to a very high degree. Paul Bracq and Bruno Sacco are considered among the most talented automotive designers, for a good reason. I would say Mercedes designs quit being about function before form after the W124 production ended in 1994.\n\nThe Mercedes 600 is more from the W110 school of design than it is from the W108, but it was a lot more attractive than the Cadillac limousine, which looked like a turtle.", "likes": 13, "timestamp": 1592181053, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4652984, "authorName": "pickas", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pickas/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is it me or is there a 11 year period of a gap in between owners?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592192912, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653069, "authorName": "some_dude", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/some_dude/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@pickas I think that's a typo. There are invoices in the pictures from 2019 in Mr. Kinnear's name, so that would be 29 years, not 19 years.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592198523, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653258, "authorName": "Lwb250", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lwb250/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The new owner will need to learn the \"M100 Secret Handshake\":\r\n\r\n\"I know what the M-100 secret handshake is: The rare and elusive US $1,000 bill. This is just like the secret Masonic handshake. You come up to someone that you suspect may have an M100, and extend your right hand with a $1,000 bill cupped in your hand and smoothly pass it on. If the person looks down, and says \"WOW, I've never SEEN so much money in my LIFE\", you immediately grab it back and continue on. If they say \"Huh, this is what I spent on my turn signal repair\", you embrace them warmly.\" - Todd Knutson", "likes": 15, "timestamp": 1592224275, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653264, "authorName": "mrjirey", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrjirey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Lwb250 - So true", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592224396, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653291, "authorName": "TAG", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tag/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Would be interesting to know the history of this car. Growing up in NYC and outside of Philadelphia it was not uncommon for families to have a limousine ... but, they were often not black. I misspoke earlier -- our Fleetwood was a 1966 .. replaced a very weird Chrysler w/ suicide doors that I sort of remember. The horn on these things would vibrate the whole car -- think it was at the driver wheel well. I don't remember any AC issues ... but -- nothing worked as well as the GM systems back then.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592225213, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653314, "authorName": "BarneyFife", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/barneyfife/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "No 600 auction would be complete without a refresher view of this:\r\nhttps://www.facebook.com/mbcap/videos/the-witches-of-eastwick-1987/1376788949013166/", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592225752, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653318, "authorName": "Calcowboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/calcowboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I never really knew much about these but thanks to All of stories and comments I\u2019ve begun to learn. This is definitely a great reason to follow BaT. Thanks to all for the education. GLWA", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592225825, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653341, "authorName": "solo2z06", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/solo2z06/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had one of these for a short time. Beyond the sticker shock of replacement parts, these cars are incredibly fast for their size.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592226483, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653525, "authorName": "dowright", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dowright/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I saw Roy Orbison\u2019s at a car show in PA. Pure class!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592230300, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653658, "authorName": "crailauto", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crailauto/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Why no photos of rear seat and door panels?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592232862, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4653684, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good morning folks, Last few hours of bidding. Good luck. I am available to answer any questions. thank you.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592233333, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654004, "authorName": "RPChan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rpchan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "There have been a number of these for sale over the past couple of years that needed some work that was going to be very expensive. This is not one of those. This is the car to buy if you want a well sorted 600. As an owner I can attest parts are expensive so getting one in this shape is the way to go.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592238689, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654066, "authorName": "Marwan351", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/marwan351/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is everything working?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592239562, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654159, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In 1972 I bought my first new car, a '72 MErcedes 280SE sedan, for $9904.00 So this car, in the same year, cost as much as three 280SEs. The @80SE wasn't the top of the line in what would come to be S-class cars, but it wasn't the bottom, either. You could also get the 280SEL, and two 300SELs were available- the 6.3, and the 3.5, if I recall correctly. My guess is that a 6.3 300SEL would have been $15000 or so. So, two of those or one 600SWB. \r\n\r\nI love M100 cars, but this is just too big for someone who doesn't ferry large groups of people around..... but if I were to buy one, it would definitely be this car, from this seller..", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592241025, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654204, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hello there, all items work properly on this 600 except that the passenger seat radio control do not work, clock is temperamental (so i would not say it works). complete pneumatic system works, central locking (vacuum works), comfort hydraulic works, engine and transmission properly run and shift, kick-down works, sunroof works, automatic spare tire release (yes it works), all lights work, turn signal works will pass NY state safety inspection.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592241694, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654257, "authorName": "mercedeseuro", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mercedeseuro/", "bidAmount": 71000, "content": "$71,000 bid placed by mercedeseuro", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592242507, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654277, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 72000, "content": "$72,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592242699, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654393, "authorName": "trademark", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/trademark/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Buy this & Limo/Uber it since you can social distance in it (sort of)\n\nCould help pay it off over time :)\n\nBest of luck seller & bidders", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592243798, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654429, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@jim_Rosenthal. The 600 SWB carries 5 comfortably, including driver. You can barely squeeze in another if the passengers are all small to medium size, but that\u2019s all.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244127, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654441, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 72600, "content": "$72,600 bid placed by F01", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244185, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654446, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 74000, "content": "$74,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244209, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654448, "authorName": "mikes_motors", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikes_motors/", "bidAmount": 82000, "content": "$82,000 bid placed by mikes_motors", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244211, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654450, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 85000, "content": "$85,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244230, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654454, "authorName": "mikes_motors", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikes_motors/", "bidAmount": 86500, "content": "$86,500 bid placed by mikes_motors", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244265, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654460, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 87000, "content": "$87,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244290, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654469, "authorName": "mikes_motors", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikes_motors/", "bidAmount": 87500, "content": "$87,500 bid placed by mikes_motors", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244346, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654480, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 88000, "content": "$88,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244400, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654484, "authorName": "mikes_motors", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikes_motors/", "bidAmount": 88500, "content": "$88,500 bid placed by mikes_motors", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244447, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654486, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 89000, "content": "$89,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244458, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654491, "authorName": "Crazyas00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crazyas00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "All it takes is two....................", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592244494, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654501, "authorName": "mikes_motors", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikes_motors/", "bidAmount": 89500, "content": "$89,500 bid placed by mikes_motors", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244534, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654515, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 90000, "content": "$90,000 bid placed by orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244580, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 4654529, "authorName": "orlandow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orlandow/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 6/15/20 for $90,000 to orlandow", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592244700, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 4654532, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Starmotors @orlandow Congrats to buyer and seller. Enjoy the grand 600 SWB", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592244733, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654536, "authorName": "Calcowboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/calcowboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congrats. Fair deal for buyer and seller. Nice car.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592244739, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654540, "authorName": "starmotors (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/starmotors/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congratulations on the 600, nice auction.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592244756, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654543, "authorName": "ducrcr", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ducrcr/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@orlandow Your first win, a very nice car to start off with! Congrats!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592244767, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654555, "authorName": "F01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/f01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@orlando. You couldn\u2019t have bought it from a better seller. Gary is one of the most knowledgeable persons on these cars. Congrats again.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592244869, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654562, "authorName": "BobDMac", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bobdmac/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If I had this, I'd be tempted to fly those diplomatic pennants on the front fenders.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592244894, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654564, "authorName": "Crazyas00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crazyas00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "And away it goes.\n\n@orlandow : Way to bid! Congrats on a great Benz!\n\n@starmotors : Congratulations to you! Good Sale! Thanks for bringing this 600 here.\n\n@mikes_motors : Honorable Mention to you as well.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1592244960, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654586, "authorName": "MrcBnz55", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrcbnz55/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@jim_rosenthal\r\nBy 1972, the 280 S, 280 SEL, 300 SEL 3.5 and 300 SEL 6.3 were no longer available in the U.S. The 600 still was, and it was the last year for the U.S.-model 600. The 280 SE remained available, and the 280 SE/SEL 4.5 and 300 SEL 4.5 became available for 1972 as U.S. only models. Prices ranged from $9500 for a 280 SE to $13,800 for a 300 SEL 4.5. The 600 was in another league at $32,700. I had a 280 SEL 4.5 for many years and drove it past 300,000 miles. It was a great car.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592245153, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654684, "authorName": "hank42", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hank42/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@fo1, who's Gary?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1592246118, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654687, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Appreciate all the comments, some of which augmented my ancient and defective memory..\r\n\r\nThe 600 is BIG on the outside. Evidently, not so big on the inside. :) And anyway five people is enough. \r\n\r\nI owned a 280SE, sadly wrecked, and a 280SEL 4.5, both from new. I miss them to this day. I have a 6.3 now, and love it, but I wish I had a 280SE, too. Not logical, I admit, but I never thought collecting automobiles was in any way logical.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1592246134, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654694, "authorName": "CajunSS", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cajunss/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This seems like a great deal. Sure, you could buy one with needs for less, but in the long run, you might end up spending more getting everything right. As the old adage goes, buy the best one you can find. Well done.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1592246195, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4654784, "authorName": "some_dude", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/some_dude/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Now we know what a great 600 is worth... in many ways, I would say this was a bargain. Well bought and sold.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1592246822, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4656118, "authorName": "Mbsbms", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mbsbms/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@orlando\r\nCongratulations on your win of this amazing classic! \r\nIf you are interested in an original \u2018blue box\u2019 presentation set from 1964, let me know.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592254432, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4656870, "authorName": "lumdor", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lumdor/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Great deal for both seller and buyer. Happy Motoring!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592259807, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4657422, "authorName": "jamieSL", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jamiesl/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congratulations on one unique impressive handcrafted automobile ( can\u2019t call this a just a car). The thing that puts it over the edge for me is the color - it\u2019s the end all ! Enjoy !!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592271458, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4657676, "authorName": "Stephan_Forslund", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/stephan_forslund/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "That adage is the best one you can afford ( well for us peons)", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1592279489, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4657683, "authorName": "Frenchbuff", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frenchbuff/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Anyone owning or interested in owning one of these 600s should pay attention to what @EDM says below. \u00a0The hydraulics seem to panic most potential purchasers, but I learned that the 600 system is child's play next to a Citroen DS21, and not as smartly designed. \u00a0\r\nHaving been hired to fix Jacques Littlefield's '65 600 SWB model, I found the hydraulics strangely set up vs every Citroen system as Jacques' car lacked a simple bleed system to drain it of pressure for servicing - standard on the DS system and any hydropneumatically- suspended Citroen. \u00a0Instead, the manual admonishes service folks to cycle the windows up/down until no pressure is left! \u00a0How quaint! \u00a0So once I had repaired his car so the master window switch didn't leak like a sieve, i installed a simple bleed line and valve to route the stored fluid under pressure to the reservoir.\r\nAs for other's comments about repair costs, buying original MB parts is most of the problem. \u00a0When I found that the ' 65's under radiator pressure accumulator - which is supposed to power the windows when engine is off - was blown, rather than stick Jacques with a $7000 bill for the Bosch part, I pulled out my Parker hydraulics book, found an accumulator which fit perfectly in the original MB mounts, had it pressurized to the book value, and spliced it into the car's system with a few hardware store plumbing bits.\u00a0 Total parts cost under $1000.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe master window switch price - the main part leaking in the system - was listed as $13000! \u00a0For that it must've been machined out of billet aluminum and hand finished! \u00a0That was the height of absurdity - I eliminated the leaks by designing a seal-removal tool on the spot, made it, and replaced the seals for about $6.00 from the local Redwood City Ca. hydraulics shop in about 2 hrs flat.. \u00a0If anyone is interested in learning how to service this system, contact me thru BAT. \u00a063 yrs of owning and driving and restoring Citroens has taught me a few things, and there's nothing nysterious about the MB system except the exorbitant prices - it's just plumbing. \u00a0All in all, Jacques saved about $10,000 by giving me a chance to learn about the car.\u00a0\r\n\u00a0Lessons learned are available to other owners who're interested in knowing more about the MB system if BAT allows that. \u00a0And make sure all passengers understand there is no safety system on the window hydraulics limiting pressure on closure as far as I could tell - it's a definite finger guillotine -\u00a0", "likes": 13, "timestamp": 1592280037, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 4704152, "authorName": "CascoPhil", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cascophil/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@starmotors\r\nCongrats on the BaT sale of the 600. Good price!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1593120361, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5190476, "authorName": "SkeeterMB", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/skeetermb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Really?\r\nNice paint job.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1602735449, "type": "comment"}]