This car is substituted for the 300d and becomes thus temporarily the most expensive sedan in the Daimler-Benz program. Although it is the most expensive car in the program it is not simultaneously the largest as the interior corresponds with that of the 220. Even the cheapest model, the 190, does not have less interior space, however, a shorter front. Advertising this car, Daimler tries to point out the advantages of the same size as for example for warehousing, but also to stress the clear differences in the featuring of the car.
What actually are the qualities of the new flagship? Starting with the engine, we recognize the 3-litre engine from the 300 SL with light metal block and seven bearing crankshaft, but without its direct injection. The engine is clearly lighter as compared to the other six cylinder engines, making the car less nose-heavy. Unfortunately it makes the car also substantially more expensive. The applied aluminum produces a clearly more discernible, clear sound with increasing power output and the higher revs. Due to a standard hydraulic support for easier and straighter steering, a compressor system for the air cushioning of the long version, and the optional air-conditioning, the increased engine performance gets used up. What is left is sucked up by the automatic transmission. Anyway, it is obvious how the extra charge for this car is answered for, and why a cubic capacity of three litres should be seen as a minimum requirement. We are not going to investigate the petrol consumption, which is indeed slightly cushioned by the viscous blower, a feature that is added later on. To bring down the force at all times, a locking differential is installed. This sedan is the first one to receive disc brakes on all four wheels.
For customers who are really keen on more interior space in this top model, there is the long version adding 10 cm in 1963. The extra room is used to increase the space in front of the rear bench, supposedly for vehicles with chauffeur. To guarantee the private sphere of the passengers in the rear, it is at that time still common to install a partition window. The interior distinguishes itself by the usage of wooden enclosures in the windows, different coverings and some other gimmicks clearly distinguishing it from their less expensive brothers. Nevertheless, the interior lining is not comparable to the Maybach nowadays, introduced nearly 40 years later. Progress is inevitable both in designing and manufacturing.
Mercedes 300 SE