Introduction and History of the Mercedes-Benz W100 Series (Mercedes-Benz 600)

The Mercedes-Benz 600, internally designated as the W100, was introduced in 1963 and remained in production until 1981. Designed as the ultimate expression of luxury, technology, and authority, it served as the brand’s flagship model and was aimed at royalty, heads of state, celebrities, and the ultra-wealthy.

This exclusive limousine was not only Mercedes-Benz’s most expensive and complex passenger car of its time, but also a technical marvel that redefined standards for the automotive world. From its powerful V8 engine to its sophisticated hydraulic systems, the W100 was in a class of its own.

Historical Background

The W100 project began in the late 1950s as a response to the rising influence of luxury brands like Cadillac and Rolls-Royce. Mercedes-Benz sought to reclaim its pre-war prestige with a car that would outclass all rivals in performance, comfort, and exclusivity.

Launched at the 1963 Frankfurt International Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz 600 was available in short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase Pullman versions. It was built to order, largely by hand, and featured state-of-the-art technology that remained unparalleled for decades.

Technical Highlights

• Engine:

  • 6.3-liter M100 V8, the most powerful Mercedes engine at the time

  • Output: 250 PS (247 hp) and 500+ Nm torque

  • Top speed: ~205 km/h (127 mph)

• Transmission:

  • 4-speed automatic, specially developed for the car

• Suspension:

  • Fully independent air suspension for unmatched ride comfort

• Hydraulic System (150 bar / 2,200 psi):

  • Operated windows, seats, sunroof, trunk lid, doors, and partition glass

  • Ultra-silent and powerful, making electric motors seem crude in comparison

• Brakes:

  • Dual-circuit power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels

Body Styles and Versions

1. 600 SWB (Short Wheelbase) – Sedan

   • ~3,000 mm wheelbase

   • 4-5 passenger configuration

   • Chauffeur-driven or owner-driven luxury saloon

2. 600 Pullman (LWB) – Limousine

   • Extended 3,900 mm wheelbase

   • 6 or more passengers

   • Available as:

     • Pullman Limousine (4-door)

     • Pullman Landaulet (rear folding soft top)

     • 6-door Pullman for heads of state or official delegations

3. 600 Pullman Landaulet – The rarest and most prestigious variant

   • Primarily for papal or state use

   • Just 59 Landaulets built (including 2 full Landaulets)

4. Custom-bodied versions

   • Some coachbuilt specials, including ambulances and parade cars

Production Figures (1963–1981)

Note: Each car was built to order and customized to the client’s specifications.

Notable Owners

The 600 gained the nickname “Grosser Mercedes” (“Grand Mercedes”) and was favored by a wide spectrum of elite and controversial figures, such as:

• John Lennon & George Harrison (The Beatles)

• Hugh Hefner

• Elvis Presley

• Jack Nicholson

• Coco Chanel

• Enver Hoxha, Nicolae Ceaușescu, Saddam Hussein, Fidel Castro, Kim Il-sung, and Chairman Mao

• Pope Paul VI (Landaulet version)

The W100 became a status symbol not just of wealth, but of absolute power — from Hollywood to totalitarian regimes.