The Mercedes-Benz 770, often referred to as the ‘Großer Mercedes’ (Grand Mercedes), was introduced to the world at the Paris Motor Show in October 1930, immediately establishing itself as the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. Designed to cater to the most discerning clientele, this prestigious vehicle was powered by a robust eight-cylinder inline engine displacing 7.7 liters. Prospective owners had the choice between a naturally aspirated variant producing 150 horsepower and a supercharged version delivering either 150 hp or a more potent 200 hp when the supercharger was engaged. Interestingly, a vast majority of buyers, only thirteen in total, opted for the non-supercharged engine, highlighting the demand for ultimate power in this era of automotive grandeur.
Production of the meticulously crafted Mercedes-Benz 770 was undertaken at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Untertürkheim, Germany. The initial series, based on the W07 platform, spanned from 1930 to 1938, culminating in a limited production run of just 117 vehicles. Subsequently, the W150 platform continued the legacy of the Mercedes-Benz 770 into the wartime period, adding a further 88 units to its exclusive lineage until 1943. The Mercedes-Benz 770 remains a significant model in automotive history, representing the pinnacle of pre-war luxury and engineering prowess.
The Birth of the Großer Mercedes (W07)
Launched in 1930, the W07 generation of the Mercedes-Benz 770 marked the beginning of an era for opulent motoring. This model was conceived as a flagship vehicle, intended to showcase Mercedes-Benz’s engineering excellence and design sophistication. The availability of both supercharged and naturally aspirated engine options catered to different preferences, although the allure of forced induction proved overwhelmingly popular. The production period for the W07 Mercedes-Benz 770, from 1930 to 1938, coincided with a period of significant global change, yet the car maintained its status as a symbol of unwavering luxury and prestige for the fortunate few who could acquire it. Its limited production of 117 units during this time frame underscores its exclusivity and handcrafted nature.
Evolution and Wartime Production (W150)
The W150 generation of the Mercedes-Benz 770 took over the mantle in 1938, carrying the production run through the turbulent years of World War II until 1943. This iteration continued the tradition of the ‘Großer Mercedes’, adapting and evolving to meet the demands of a changing world while still retaining its core identity of unparalleled luxury and performance. Despite the wartime constraints and shifts in global priorities, Mercedes-Benz continued to produce the 770, albeit in even more limited numbers. The 88 units produced under the W150 designation further cemented the Mercedes-Benz 770’s rarity and historical significance, demonstrating its resilience and enduring appeal even in times of global upheaval.
Technical Specifications of the Mercedes-Benz 770
The Mercedes-Benz 770 boasted impressive technical specifications that underscored its position as a leading luxury vehicle of its time. The heart of the car was its Twin Spark M150 Inline-8 engine, a marvel of engineering that delivered substantial power and smooth operation. Key specifications include:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Twin Spark M150 Inline-8 |
| Valvetrain | 2 Valves per Cylinder |
| Fuel Feed | 1 Mercedes-Benz Triple-Jet Carburetor |
| Displacement | 7655 cc / 467.1 in³ |
| Bore | 95 mm / 3.74 in |
| Stroke | 135 mm / 5.31 in |
| Compression | 6.1:1 |
| Power | 230 bhp @ 3200 rpm |
| Specific Output | 30.05 bhp per litre |
| Driven Wheels | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Chassis | Steel over Oval Tube Frame |
| Front Tires | 8.25-17 |
| Rear Tires | 8.25-17 |
| Front Brakes | Hydraulic Drums w/Vacuum Booster |
| Rear Brakes | Hydraulic Drums w/Vacuum Booster |
| 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 |
| Length | 6000 mm / 236.2 in |
| Width | 2070 mm / 81.5 in |
| Height | 1800 mm / 70.9 in |
| Top Speed | ~160.9 kph / 100 mph |
These figures highlight the Mercedes-Benz 770 as not just a symbol of luxury, but also a vehicle engineered for performance and stability, befitting its status as a ‘Grand’ car. The advanced suspension and braking systems for the era further underscore the engineering sophistication embedded within the Mercedes-Benz 770.
Mercedes-Benz 770 in Auction History
The Mercedes-Benz 770 continues to command significant attention and value in the classic car auction world, reflecting its rarity, historical importance, and enduring appeal to collectors. Several notable auction sales underscore its desirability:
1931 Mercedes-Benz 770 Cabriolet D by Sindelfingen: A stunning example of the W07 series, this Cabriolet D, one of only 18 produced, was sold by Bonhams in 2015 for a remarkable €2,311,500. Originally delivered to German actor Erik Charell, its provenance and meticulous restoration history further enhanced its value. This sale demonstrates the high esteem and collector value attached to early examples of the Mercedes-Benz 770.
1943 Mercedes-Benz 770 K W150 Pullman Limousine: A later example from the W150 series, this Pullman Limousine represents the ultimate in wartime luxury and exclusivity. One of only three known to exist and the sole intact and operable example, it was offered at a Gooding & Company auction in 2010 with an estimated value reflecting its extreme rarity and historical significance. Although it did not sell at the specific auction event, its valuation at $1,430,000 underscores the immense desirability and investment potential of these late-production Mercedes-Benz 770 models, particularly those with unique body styles and historical connections.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz 770 ‘Großer Mercedes’ stands as a testament to automotive excellence and luxury from a bygone era. Its limited production, powerful engine, advanced engineering, and historical significance ensure its place as a highly sought-after collector’s car, with auction results reflecting its enduring legacy and prestige. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the Mercedes-Benz 770 remains an iconic symbol of automotive grandeur.
