The Mercedes-Benz 600 (W100) is a luxury limousine series developed under the Mercedes-Benz brand by Daimler Benz (the current “Daimler AG”) in West Germany prior to the nation’s reunification. The model made its grand debut at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show.　

The series include short wheel-base Limousine (3,200mm), long wheel-base Pullman (3,900mm), and Landaulet which features a convertible roof at rear passenger area and thus used to be seen at a parade for heads of state. The production totaled 2,677, comprising 2,190 Limousine, 428 Pullmans, 59 Landaulet.

The unitized body construction based on the lineups of Landaulet with the widely open layout certifies its strong floor. The 600 Limousine has 4 doors (5 or 6 seats), whereas 600 Pullman and Landaulet have 4 or 6 doors (7 or 8 seats in 3 rows).

Its 6.3-liter M100, a new 90°V8 engine was developed to power this grand model, featuring single overhead camshafts (SOHC) and Bosch mechanical fuel injection. The total output is 250hp(186kW) or 4,000rpm with the maximum torque of 51 kgm or 2,800 rpm.

The cutting-edge technologies of the time are also featured in other aspects of the vehicle. Its layout is based on 300SEL 6.3, the most excellent model of S class Saloons, while its front wheel features the double wishbone suspension and its rear the swing axle. Moreover, the air suspension offers a smooth, comfortable driving with this highest-grade limousine, while the car keeps stable against the load movement despite of its weight of 2,470kg (600 Limousine).

Amongst all the excellent equipment of this most luxurious limousine, the most unique feature is the hydraulic system which is used instead of electric motors for automatic operations of the power windows, the door lock, and the automatic trunk lid. The hydraulic motor generates no sounds and thus enables smooth, elegant movements.

This 1971 Mercedes-Benz 600 Limousine, chassis no. 100.012.12.001742, is in Maroon color with black leather seats. It was first delivered to California, the USA, and parallel imported to Japan in 1987.

After arriving in Japan, the headlights were altered to European single-coated glass and the speed meter that was displayed in miles was changed to kilometers. At the time of alternation, the mileage was recorded as 27,922 miles (44,675 km). The mileage thereafter as of April 2019 is 10,989 km, making the cumulative mileage a total of 55,664 km. Many records and documents on these alternations and general maintenance are kept in safekeeping by the owner.

The 600 Limousine is not merely a simple chauffeured limousine whose sole purpose is to roam quietly around the city from party to party, but rather, it was developed as a “business limousine” with the capability to speed through the Autobahn from city to city. After its arrival to Japan, this 600 Limousine has been under the care of a passionate car enthusiast for 32 years. Another factor that contributes to its perfect condition is the frequent care and maintenance inspections conducted by Yanase Co., Ltd., a long-time certified Mercedes-Benz dealer. These traits make this 600 Limousine a true rarity.