1967 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet – 6 doors 6.3L V8 4AT (250 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Mercedes-Benz introduced the 600 model in 1963 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, but that was just the beginning of what the automaker had in mind with its most luxurious vehicle.

Fast forward to 1964, and the three-pointed star brand introduced a six-door version of the car, named Pullman Landaulet. Its 155.5″ (3.9-meter) long wheelbase allowed the automaker to create the most luxurious car on the market. Furthermore, it was the most expensive new limousine in the world. This was the kind of vehicle offered for heads of state. It was penned by the most prestigious designers who worked for the automaker: Friedrich Geiger (the man who designed the 500K), Paul Bracq (who designed the SL), and Bruno Sacco.

While the front of the vehicle shared its panels with the regular, four-door 600, everything was changed behind the B-post. A fully retractable roof left the rear-seated occupants under the blue sky, so they could stand up and wave to the crowd. The second row of doors was made for security officers who needed to jump out quickly and clear the way for the most important occupants seated on the rearmost seats. The canvas-top could have been retracted behind the cabin, and also served as a protection against draft.

The heavy, three-ton (6590 lbs) vehicle was fitted with hydraulically adjustable dampers. Moreover, the pneumatic system also controlled the door locks, windows, trunk opening and closing, and even seat adjustments.

Under the hood was a 6.3-liter V8 engine with a fuel injection system. It offered huge torque, but unfortunately, a big part was used for the hydraulic system. In addition, the automatic transmission was designed to offer the best comfort when changing gears. But still, the car could go over 200 kph (120 mph). The success of the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman was recognized by its long production time. Until 1981, the German automaker produced 59 Landaulets.