1952 Mercedes-Benz 300

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys The Hershey Auction event, 7 - 8 October 2026.
$150,000 - $200,000 USD

• Rare first-year Mercedes-Benz 300 Cabriolet D, the most exclusive and sought-after variant of the early post-war 300 Series
• Powered by a 3.0-liter overhead-camshaft inline six-cylinder engine with aluminum cylinder head, twin Solex carburetors, and four-speed column-shift transmission
• Seven-year body-off restoration personally completed in 2024 by legendary Luigi Chinetti disciple and restorer Frank Buonanno, founder of Black Horse Garage in Bridgeport, Connecticut
• Finished in Graphite Gray (DB 190) with a striking black-and-red convertible top over a luxurious red leather interior with stunning wood trim

Emerging from the challenges of the post-war era, the 300 was the first all-new model line developed by Mercedes-Benz following World War II and immediately restored the marques standing as a global benchmark for automotive excellence. Years before the legendary 300 SL Gullwing, the 300 Series had already reaffirmed Mercedes-Benzs place among the worlds most prestigious automobile manufacturers. Designed by Hermann Ahrens, the imposing four-door sedan quickly earned the nickname Adenauer after the specially prepared examples commissioned for German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer. Its association with heads of state and distinguished figures further cemented the 300s reputation as the ultimate expression of automotive prestige and sophistication.

At the pinnacle of this extraordinary series was the hand-built 300 Cabriolet D, among the rarest and most magnificent Mercedes-Benz automobiles of the early post-war period. The spacious six-passenger cabin was a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship, featuring sumptuous leather upholstery, hand-finished exotic wood veneers, and brilliant triple-plated solid brass brightwork. No detail was overlooked, and the methods and materials employed rivaled those of the companys most prestigious pre-war grand touring machines.

Coming from the first year of Cabriolet D production, this remarkable 1952 example benefits from a meticulous seven-year, body-off restoration personally completed in 2024 by the legendary Luigi Chinetti disciple and award-winning restorer Frank Buonanno, founder of Black Horse Garage in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Elegantly finished in Graphite Gray (DB 190) with a black-and-red convertible top, the interior is a stunning showcase of vibrant red leather, beautifully restored woodwork, and exquisite period detailing. Prior to completion, the car was invited to be displayed at the Greenwich Concours dElegance, with the early invitation a testament to both the car and its legendary restorer.

Now completed, this Mercedes-Benz 300 Cabriolet D stands among the finest surviving examples of this extraordinary model. Combining concours-quality restoration and remarkable historical significance, it is ready to take its rightful place as a true cornerstone of any world-class collection of fine automobiles. To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/hf26/.