Test Drive - 1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB!

This is a 1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 (W100) SWB that has a documented 37,000 miles from new and has been maintained with no limitation on investment. Rarely does one see a 600 SWB that has all of its intricate components working well as well as spectacular cosmetic condition. Its original interior is striking and further supports the originality of this Grand Mercedes. This is just one of 323 made for the global market.

This 600 was tested by Mercedes for its initial 300 miles and had its factory break-in service performed on February 6th, 1966. Its initial delivery was on June 23, 1966. By August 1966 the 600 had accumulated 4,083 miles and was enjoyed by its first owner and serviced at the Mercedes dealer in North Carolina. By June 2, 1968, the Mercedes had its second owner Bill Schomaker, who lived in Jacksonville, Florida and then later in Colorado. The 600 received regular service at Autohaus Benz, Inc. in Jacksonville. Mr. Schomaker later moved to Colorado and placed the 600 into storage. By June 27th, 2013, the 600 had been recommissioned by Gunbarrel Import Motors in Niwot, CO with an investment in mechanical work of $82,484. We have the detailed receipts for this recommissioning. Mr. Schomaker enjoyed the 600 for five decades until it was acquired by its present owner, Bradley Huson of Washington State on March 15th, 2018.

Mr. Huson has updated the mechanical restoration with a complete engine rebuild at a cost of about $50,000, wood restoration by Madera Concepts ($17,000) and the rebuilding of most all of the hydraulic systems including the doors, windows, sunroof and more. Also, the suspension systems have been properly rebuilt.

The exterior is finished in the rare Dark Blue (Paint Code DB332) and the paint quality is excellent. The shine and luster are fantastic. There are a few very small dings on an otherwise show quality livery. The chrome and stainless steel are all refinished as needed and in excellent condition. The exterior is simply gorgeous, with a mixture of elegance and power that only the 600 had achieved.

The interior is largely original with its Dark Blue leather interior and complementary Dark Blue wool carpeting. Mr. Huson added Dark Blue and Black Coco Mats that are period correct, look great and are very practical. The refinished wood is simply stunning and looks most likely better than new. The interior chrome is all in excellent condition. Overall, the interior is gorgeous with only slight creasing mostly on the front seat from its minimal wear during the past 58 years.

The engine compartment is well detailed and reflects a nearly unlimited investment in service and maintenance. The venerable 6.3-liter V8 produces 250 hp and is paired with its Bosch fuel injection and its four-speed automatic transmission. The engine and all major suspension and hydraulic systems have all been rebuilt and is all working as it should. The 126-inch wheelbase and the air suspension system create an unparalleled ride with excellent handling characteristics. When the car is first driven, the transmission shifts aggressively and as it warms up, it smooths out.

This is one of the nicest 600 SWB examples available on the market. This 600 comes complete with its original data cards, owners and service manuals, radio manuals and over a decade of detailed service receipts. We have this priced to sell. The Hagerty No. 2 value is $238,000. See the valuation here: 1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 Base | Hagerty Valuation Tools

For more information and details, please call or text Classic Promenade at +1.623.404.9042 or email us at [email protected]. See our 120 photos and three videos on our website to learn more. This Mercedes is available for viewing at our Phoenix showroom. We are pleased to offer FaceTime or WhatsApp live video inspections and we help coordinate shipping worldwide. We also have financing partners if you are interested in financing.