The Mercedes-Benz 770, famously known as the “Großer Mercedes” or Grand Mercedes, stands as a testament to the opulent automotive engineering of the pre-World War II era. Introduced in 1930, this magnificent vehicle was conceived to satisfy the desires of the global elite, offering an unparalleled blend of power, luxury, and prestige. The Mercedes-Benz 770 quickly became a symbol of status and sophistication.
The Mercedes-Benz 770 evolved through two significant iterations: the W07, produced from 1930 to 1938, and the subsequent W150, manufactured from 1938 until 1943 amidst wartime constraints. The initial W07, unveiled at the 1930 Paris Motor Show, boasted a formidable 7.7-liter inline-eight engine. Customers could choose between a naturally aspirated 150 horsepower version or a supercharged variant delivering either 150 hp or an impressive 200 hp. Remarkably, only a small fraction of buyers opted for the non-supercharged engine, highlighting the demand for ultimate performance. The W07 series saw a production run of 117 units, while the upgraded W150 added a further 88 units to the lineage, extending its production into the early 1940s.
The heart of the Mercedes-Benz 770 was its meticulously engineered 7.7-liter inline-8 engine. This Twin Spark M150 engine, equipped with a Mercedes-Benz Triple-Jet Double Carburetor, produced considerable power. The supercharged version of this engine could generate up to 230 bhp at 3200 rpm, providing impressive performance for a vehicle of its size and stature. Further enhancing its engineering sophistication were hydraulic drum brakes with a Bosch-Dewandre vacuum booster and an advanced suspension system featuring double wishbones with coil springs at the front and a De Dion axle with double coil springs at the rear. These technical specifications underscored the Mercedes-Benz commitment to combining luxury with cutting-edge automotive technology of the period.
The Mercedes-Benz 770 is highly valued by collectors and automotive historians alike, not only for its engineering and luxury but also its historical significance. Auction results for well-preserved examples reflect its desirability and blue-chip classic status. For instance, a 1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 Cabriolet D by Sindelfingen was sold for over €2.3 million, and a 1943 Mercedes-Benz 770 K W150 Pullman Limousine was valued around $1.4 million, even though it did not sell at auction. These figures underscore the Mercedes-Benz 770’s status as a highly sought-after and historically important automobile.
The Mercedes-Benz 770 “Großer Mercedes” endures as an automotive legend, epitomizing pre-war grandeur and engineering prowess. Its powerful engine, advanced technological features for its time, and profound historical significance cement its position as one of the most esteemed and coveted classic automobiles worldwide. The legacy of the Mercedes-Benz 770 continues to resonate with collectors and enthusiasts, representing the zenith of luxury car manufacturing in its era.
