1953 MERCEDES-BENZ 300S CABRIOLET

The 300 S, or Super, model was introduced in mid-1952, and it combined elements of the existing 300 series with the upcoming but delayed 300 SL sports car. The most notable enhancement included a 30-percent increase in horsepower, from 115 to 150. This new car was praised by the motoring press, as it was capable of a remarkable top speed of 110mph. It also had a wraparound windshield, graceful wing lines and a curved rear body line. The comprehensive list of standard equipment included no-glare mirrors, vacuum-assisted brakes, backup lights, reclining seats and windshield washers. Priced from $12,680, these cars cost as much as 10 standard cars and, as a result, only approximately 560 examples of the 300 S were built, with 203 of those being cabriolets. Of course, such exclusivity resulted in an enviable list of wealthy and famous clients, including the Aga Khan, Gary Cooper and Cary Grant. More importantly, the 300 S introduced three sporty new bodies on a 25-centimeter shorter chassis: a coupe, cabriolet and roadster. Although the styling was fresh and modern, the interior was most impressive. In comparison to the Spartan automotive furnishings of some of its contemporaries, the new 300 S featured a lavish interior with supple leather, glossy and perfect burled walnut trim, a dash with chrome-accented instruments and a switchgear that was made with the precision of fine jewelry. The Cabriolet presented here was reportedly maintained in the care of its original owner from 1953 until 1979. Its second owner then began a no-expense-spared restoration that was ultimately completed by marque specialist Don Mertz in 2010. This beautifully presented car is finished in Medium Red, has matching wheels and center caps, and a convertible top that is finished in correct fabric. Inside, hand-finished burled walnut extends 360 degrees around the wonderful hand-rolled and pleated tan leather upholstery, which is trimmed with wool carpeting. The trunk is outfitted with an extraordinary set of handmade reproduction German pigskin luggage, two spare tires that match the period-correct white walls mounted on the car, an original tool roll and the correct jack. Under the hood is equally impressive, with Mr. Mertz's long years of Mercedes-Benz experience showing in finishes indistinguishable from how the car was originally delivered new in 1953. The car retains its original body and drivetrain, and it will be provided with its original owner's manual and documentation, which includes a Certificate of Authenticity from Mercedes-Benz.

1953 Mercedes-Benz 300S Cabriolet, frame-off restoration, winner of nine awards from a collection of Concours in Southern California.