The Mercedes-Benz 770, often known as the Großer Mercedes (Grand Mercedes), was introduced to the world at the Paris Motor Show in October 1930, but it was the 1931 Mercedes-Benz Grosser 770 model year that truly cemented its legacy. This vehicle was designed without compromise, intended to satisfy the most discerning clientele with its unparalleled luxury and engineering. At its heart lay a formidable 7.7-liter inline-eight engine, offered in two configurations: naturally aspirated producing 150 horsepower, or supercharged, boosting output to an impressive 200 horsepower from the same 150 hp base. Interestingly, a mere handful of buyers, only thirteen in total, opted for the non-supercharged variant, highlighting the desire for ultimate power and prestige associated with the 1931 Mercedes-Benz Grosser 770.
Production of these exclusive automobiles was meticulously carried out at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Untertürkheim. The initial series, based on the W07 platform, spanned from 1930 to 1938, resulting in just 117 vehicles. The subsequent W150 platform sustained production through the war years until 1943, adding a further 88 units to the total count. This limited production run further solidified the 1931 Mercedes-Benz Grosser 770 and its successors as symbols of exclusivity and automotive excellence.
A detailed view of the Mercedes-Benz 770 Grosser (W150), showcasing its imposing size and luxurious design from the pre-war era.
1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 Großer: Detailed Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Origin | Series Production Car |
| Years | 1930 – 1943 |
| Factory | Untertürkheim, Germany |
| Total Production | 205 |
| Engine Type | Twin Spark M150 Inline-8 |
| Valve Gear | 2 Valves per Cylinder |
| Fuel System | 1 Mercedes-Benz Triple-Jet Double Carburetor |
| Displacement | 7655 cc / 467.1 in³ |
| Bore & Stroke | 95 mm x 135 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 |
| Power Output | 230 bhp / 171.5 kw @ 3200 rpm |
| Specific Output | 30.05 bhp per litre |
| Chassis | Steel over Oval Tube Frame |
| Front Tires | 8.25-17 |
| Rear Tires | 8.25-17 |
| Braking System | Hydraulic Drums w/Bosch-Dewandre Vacuum Booster (Front & Rear) |
| Front Suspension | Double Wishbones w/Coil Springs |
| Rear Suspension | De Dion Axle w/Double Coil Springs |
| Wheelbase | 3880 mm / 152.8 in |
| Front Track | 1600 mm / 63.0 in |
| Rear Track | 1650 mm / 65.0 in |
| Overall Length | 6000 mm / 236.2 in |
| Overall Width | 2070 mm / 81.5 in |
| Overall Height | 1800 mm / 70.9 in |
| Maximum Speed | ~160.9 kph / 100 mph |
Notable Auction Sales of the 1931 Mercedes-Benz 770
The 1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 is not only a marvel of engineering and design but also a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its rarity, historical significance, and association with luxury and power make it a frequent highlight at prestigious automobile auctions worldwide.
1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 Cabriolet D by Sindelfingen: A Record Sale
Image of a meticulously restored 1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 Cabriolet D with coachwork by Sindelfingen, sold at auction for a significant sum, exemplifying the high value of these classic vehicles.
One particularly notable example, a 1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 Cabriolet D (W 07) with coachwork by Sindelfingen, chassis number ‘85205’, achieved a staggering sale price of €2,311,500. This particular Cabriolet D, one of only 18 ever produced, was originally delivered to Erik Charell, a renowned German actor and director, in Berlin on August 18, 1931. Reportedly costing 47,500 RM when new, this vehicle boasts a rich history, including ownership in the United States post-war before returning to Germany for a second restoration in 2004. Its journey through notable collections, including the Blackhawk Collection, and meticulous restorations underscore the enduring appeal and value of the 1931 Mercedes-Benz 770.
1943 Mercedes-Benz 770 K W150 Pullman Limousine: Unsold but Highly Valued
Another significant, albeit unsold, example is a 1943 Mercedes-Benz 770 K W150 Pullman Limousine. This model, of which only nine were ever built, is one of only three known to still exist and is uniquely recognized as the sole intact and operational example. Despite not meeting its reserve price at a 2010 auction with an estimate of $1,430,000, its significance remains unquestionable. This Pullman Limousine, with its “important political connections,” documented history, and status as the last of its kind, represents a crucial chapter in the Mercedes-Benz narrative, further highlighting the historical weight carried by the 770 series, even beyond the 1931 Mercedes-Benz Grosser 770 model year.
In conclusion, the 1931 Mercedes-Benz Grosser 770 stands as a testament to the pinnacle of pre-war automotive engineering and luxury. Its powerful engine, limited production, and association with historical figures and events ensure its place as an icon in automotive history and a highly prized possession for collectors worldwide.
