Mercedes-Benz 300SEL Coupé

Vehicle Overview

The Mercedes-Benz 300SEL Coupé Pininfarina was built in 1969 at the behest of a wealthy customer, yet it remains somewhat obscure even today, not achieving the legendary status often associated with creations from the historic Turin-based coachbuilder. This unique model made its debut at the 1970 Paris Motor Show. The story begins with a Dutch lithograph company owner who, captivated by Mercedes-Benz’s flagship model, inquired in 1968 about the possibility of a convertible version. The response from Mercedes was a firm no, and they also declined to provide a rolling chassis for a custom project. When his request for a coupe was similarly rejected, the Dutchman turned to Pininfarina in Turin. Initially, the famed Italian design house also refused, citing concerns about the chassis’ stiffness and recommending it be shortened by Mercedes. However, after some negotiation, Pininfarina agreed to the project if the car could be delivered to their facility in Turin. The Dutch entrepreneur agreed to the terms and Pininfarina quoted a cost of 10,000,000 Lire, to which the client promptly agreed. The client’s specific requests, all documented in original correspondences, were numerous and detailed. He desired a high seating position similar to a Rolls-Royce, limited glass surfaces to avoid the “aquarium” feel, and a rear seat that was movable without a fixed armrest. Additional modifications included enhanced insulation to reduce noise levels. Eventually, it was decided to send the vehicle directly from Stuttgart to Italy and then import it to the Netherlands post-completion, despite the high import taxes. Upon completion, the unique 300SEL 6.3 was displayed by Pininfarina at the 1970 Paris Motor Show, where it received a lukewarm reception. The client, however, was pleased, expressing his satisfaction in subsequent correspondences. Despite minimal press coverage, the German magazine Auto Motor & Sport noted it as a one-off for a Dutch customer, sparking rumors about the commissioner’s identity, with some speculating it was beer magnate Freddy Heineken. On February 10, 1971, the Dutchman’s chauffeur collected the car and drove it back to Holland. However, by 1972, the owner’s wife was not fond of the vehicle, prompting an inquiry to Auto Becker in Germany for a potential sale. Despite the car’s exclusivity and low mileage, Becker could not secure a buyer for the 70,000 DM asking price. Frustrated by the stalled sales process, the original owner eventually sold the car to another Dutch citizen in 1973. Since then, this unique Mercedes-Benz 300SEL Coupé Pininfarina has remained in the Netherlands, continuing its legacy as a rare and fascinating piece of automotive history.

Photo courtesy of Bonhams