The name Pullman resonates with an aura of opulence, spaciousness, and unparalleled comfort, a legacy spanning over 150 years. From revolutionizing train travel with luxurious sleeper cars to crafting bespoke automobile bodies, George Mortimer Pullman established a new benchmark for stylish travel. Mercedes-Benz recognized and admired Pullman’s dedication to luxury, leading to a fruitful partnership where Pullman created ultra-exclusive, coachbuilt versions of Mercedes automobiles in the 1920s and 30s. This collaboration laid the foundation for a lasting relationship that continues to this day.
In 1963, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 600 series (W-100), known as the Grosse Mercedes (Grand Mercedes) or simply The Grosser. This vehicle redefined the luxury limousine landscape in the same way the Porsche 911 revolutionized sports cars. The world had never encountered a car of such grandeur, sophistication, and expense. Built without budgetary constraints, each of the 2,677 units was meticulously handcrafted, often incorporating bespoke features for a clientele of global elites. Despite being the most expensive production car of its time, it rapidly became the preferred choice for heads of state, royalty, celebrities, and even figures of notoriety. The prestigious list of owners included The Pope, John Lennon, King Khalid of Saudi Arabia, Saddam Hussein, Kim Jong-il, Mao Zedong, and even Elvis Presley, who all experienced the Pullman Mercedes’ unique allure.
Alt text: Chen Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, featured on the 1965 TIME Magazine cover, highlighting the global political context of the era.
The Grosser was offered in two primary configurations: the Saloons (short wheelbase) and the Pullmans (long wheelbase). Among the Pullman variants, the Landaulets stood out, featuring convertible tops that allowed passengers to be visible during state occasions and parades. A marvel of engineering, a sophisticated hydraulic system operating at 2,000 psi powered an array of features, from window controls to door locks, all with remarkable silence. The air suspension system delivered an incredibly smooth ride, often likened to gliding in a state-of-the-art railcar, setting a new standard for ride quality in automobiles.
The specific vehicle in focus, a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 LWB Pullman, chassis number #1001412000165, was initially delivered to Automotive Limited in Hong Kong, China on February 17th, 1965. Automotive Limited was linked to Zung Fu, the official Mercedes-Benz dealer for Hong Kong and China since 1938. In 1965, Hong Kong was a flourishing trade hub under British rule, serving as a crucial gateway for China’s imports. This particular Grosser was sold new to Chen Yi, a prominent military commander, spokesperson for Chairman Mao Zedong, and one of the ten founding fathers of modern China. Chen Yi’s early career included a formative period in Paris in 1919, where he met Deng Xiaoping, later recognized as the Architect of Modern China, who was then working at a Renault factory labor union. After being expelled from France for participating in protests, Chen returned to China in 1922 and joined the Communist Party. His ascent was rapid, becoming Shanghai’s first Mayor in 1949, Vice Premier in 1954, and ultimately China’s Foreign Minister in 1958. A highly influential and widely traveled statesman, Chen Yi was often recognized for his distinctive white suit and sunglasses during international appearances. His prominence on the global stage was underscored by his feature on the cover of TIME Magazine (February 26, 1965 edition) under the headline “The Enemy in Asia – Red China’s Foreign Minister Chen Yi.”
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 LWB Pullman showcasing its iconic grille and imposing presence.
Upon arrival in Hong Kong, Chen Yi’s 1965 Mercedes Benz Grosser was immediately transported by train to Shanghai. Once there, it served as Chen Yi’s official vehicle and was also reportedly used by Mao Zedong during his visits to Shanghai. However, the Cultural Revolution, which began shortly after in 1966, brought significant changes. In February 1967, Chen Yi faced accusations of disloyalty and was subjected to investigation. Although he was eventually exonerated and reinstated in 1969, his Grosser was transferred to the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), a major state-owned Chinese automaker. The circumstances surrounding the Grosser’s acquisition by the Chinese government remain a topic of speculation. Was it a clandestine gift from West Germany as a gesture of goodwill to initiate trade discussions? Or was it deliberately procured by the Chinese government to reverse-engineer one of the most advanced automobiles of the era, aiming to develop their own luxury limousine?
Alt text: Luxurious interior detail of a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman, highlighting the plush seating and sophisticated craftsmanship.
The narrative continues that this 1965 Mercedes Benz Pullman served as a blueprint for the design and manufacturing of the Hongqi (Red Flag), China’s first domestically produced luxury limousine, exclusively used by high-ranking government officials. During the Cultural Revolution, the Grosser was placed in storage for an extended period. It was rediscovered in the 1990s by Hans Luwich, a German engineer working for Volkswagen Shanghai, a subsidiary of SAIC. Luwich acquired the car and exported it to Germany in 1993. Its significance was further recognized when it was featured in Autobild, a leading German automotive magazine. Before being acquired by its current owner in 2014, a collector in the Netherlands purchased the car from Luwich. The current owner then repatriated the car to Hong Kong before shipping it to the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Los Angeles in the summer of 2018 for a comprehensive service.
Today, this 1965 Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman remains in remarkably original, unrestored condition, bearing a distinguished patina that reflects its rich history. The opportunity to own any Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman is exceptionally rare. However, to acquire one with such a compelling history intertwined with Sino-German diplomacy and Cold War intrigue represents a truly once-in-a-lifetime prospect for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This vehicle is not just a car; it’s a rolling piece of history, embodying luxury, power, and a fascinating global narrative.
