1928 Mercedes-Benz Nurburg Sedan 460 II

Vehicle Overview

During his work for Mercedes-Benz, Ferdinand Porsche developed the Nurburg lineup, also known as the W08, which was available in a few body shapes but, most importantly, as a sedan.

The Nurburg lineup replaced the former W03, 04, and 05 models, and the car’s name came from the grueling testing program created by the German automaker. That test was performed for 13 days on the Nurburgring racetrack and the vehicle covered 20,000 km (12,427 miles). As expected, the sedan version was the most sought-after version, and it was also the most luxurious one.

Since the Nurburg Sedan was powered by an inline-eight, it forced the automaker to create a longer engine compartment. But that didn’t spoil the car’s look, on au contrary. At the front, Mercedes-Benz installed a curved chromed bar between the thin fenders, where it mounted the headlights. That design solution became a signature for the three-pointed-star brand from Stuttgart. From its profile, the high-chassis system and the four-door bodywork offered a luxurious image for customers. Still, in those times, automakers didn’t install a specific luggage compartment, so after the cabin, the vehicle ended abruptly. Yet, a rack was added behind for suitcases or chests.

Featuring the longest wheelbase in its family, the Sedan provided enough room for up to five occupants. Depending on the version, the rear seats could’ve been completely separated by the driver and the side occupant, which was most of the time a guard. Mercedes-Benz installed a four-spoke steering wheel, which also sported the controls for ignition timing and air/fuel ratio.

Mercedes-Benz installed the same engine with different power outputs for the entire Nurburg range. The 4.6-liter supercharged version provided 80 hp, while the full-option model featured a 5.0-liter 100 hp unit.