Mercedes-Benz W100 buyer's guide

The hand-built 600 flagship, powered throughout by hydraulics.

Years: 1963–1981 · Models: 600, 600 Pullman, 600 Landaulet

Overview

The 600 was Mercedes-Benz's flagship from 1963 to 1981, built in standard and long-wheelbase Pullman forms, with a small number of Landaulets. Almost everything on the car — windows, seats, door and boot closing, suspension leveling — is powered by a central hydraulic system, which defines both its comfort and its maintenance. Only about 2,700 were built, and most were chauffeur-driven cars bought new by governments and wealthy owners.

Engines

One engine throughout: the 6.3-litre M100 V8 with mechanical fuel injection, producing 250 horsepower.

What to check

• The hydraulic system: check for leaks at the pump, lines, and actuators, and confirm every powered function works — windows, seats, door closers, and the boot lid. A full hydraulic overhaul is one of the most expensive jobs on any Mercedes.
• The air suspension: watch how the car sits after standing overnight, and check the bellows, height valves, and compressor.
• Rust in the floor pans, sills, and around the air tanks and hydraulic lines, which run where moisture collects.
• Completeness of the interior fittings — curtains, picnic tables, and the Pullman divider — since missing pieces are very hard to replace.
• Cooling system condition; the V8 runs hot in traffic and the radiator and hoses are large and costly.

Values

Pullman and Landaulet versions are worth considerably more than the standard-wheelbase car, and documented, complete cars lead the market. Originality and a known history matter more than a bright repaint; a car with a fully working hydraulic system is worth a real premium over one with functions failing.

Buying tips

Have any 600 inspected by one of the few specialists who work on them, and budget seriously for annual maintenance — these cars cost money even standing still. Buy the most complete, best-documented car you can find; a cheap 600 is usually the most expensive kind.

See the 21 W100 cars currently listed.