Launched just six years after the end of World War II, the Mercedes-Benz W186 returned the marque to the forefront of global engineering and design acclaim. Early 300s were powered by the M186 3.0 litre inline-six engine, with dual Solex downdraft carburettors helping to return circa 115 horsepower via a four-speed manual gearbox that was operated by a column-mounted shifter.

The 300 compared extremely favourably to the competition, including the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud and Bentley S1. Period reviews admired its ability to combine comfort, performance, and prestige in a single package. That prowess was underpinned by a dashboard-operated torsion bar suspension system, which acted as a levelling device for the rear wheels.

Across an 11-year production run, the 300 would earn the ‘Adenauer’ nickname for its association with German Chancellor Konrad Adenaur. An avid fan, he held a fleet of six custom-made 300s during his time as the West Germany leader and in retirement.

The 300 Cabriolet D ‘Adenauer’ presented here wears handsome black paintwork, which is complemented by a black fabric folding roof, colour-matched wheel centres, and a cognac leather interior featuring wood trim. Notably, it is desirably equipped with an incredibly rare Becker Nürburg six-band radio.

Although the car’s complete history is not presently known, it has most recently resided alongside other prominent post-war Mercedes-Benzes as part of The Willy Michels Collection in Belgium. Chassis number 186.014.02130/52 is offered for sale accompanied by a cabriolet roof tonneau cover, spare wheel, jack, and tool roll.

Please note, most of the vehicles in The Willy Michiels Collection have been retained on static display for many years. As such, some cars and motorcycles will require mechanical servicing to be made roadworthy. As part of this estate sale, the vehicles are offered in their condition as found, and wherever possible RM Sotheby's encourages prospective buyers to inspect any lots prior to bidding. Please contact an RM Sotheby's Car Specialist for the condition of specific lots or with any further questions.