Like many automotive enthusiasts, I’ve always held a deep appreciation for the robust and beautifully engineered trucks Mercedes-Benz produced, especially those from the golden era of the 1960s and 70s. My fascination isn’t just academic; it’s fueled by a desire for vehicles that embody durability and offer a unique sense of adventure. This fascination was rekindled during a recent project in Bavaria. While immersed in the rustic charm of building a wooden toilet at a friend’s farm, a nearby advertisement for a Mercedes 911 truck caught my eye, sparking a journey into the world of Old Mercedes Trucks that I hadn’t anticipated.
My previous encounters with these vehicles, like meeting Martin and Peggy on the Canary Islands and admiring their Mercedes 1113 expedition truck, had already planted a seed of longing. Their mobile home on wheels, a stark contrast to my more compact van, showcased the immense possibilities and spaciousness these old Mercedes trucks offered for long-term travel and living. The idea of a vehicle that felt less like a van and more like a house was incredibly appealing.
Alt text: A classic Mercedes 911 truck for sale in Munich, showcasing its timeless design and robust build, ideal for enthusiasts of old Mercedes trucks.
Despite not actively searching for a new vehicle at that moment, the allure of the Mercedes 911 was too strong to resist. I decided to investigate, purely out of curiosity, to see one of these magnificent machines up close and personal and to meet its owner. What began as a casual viewing quickly turned into an immersive experience that changed my perspective on what my ideal adventure vehicle could be.
The Mercedes 911 was undeniably impressive. The owner, a friendly enthusiast himself, accompanied me on a test drive since I lacked the proper license for such a large vehicle. The driving experience was a revelation, a world apart from the nimble handling of my van. The sheer size of the truck demanded a different approach to driving. Its turning circle was vast, and maneuvering this behemoth felt like a deliberate and engaging process. Interestingly, while the truck dwarfed my van in external dimensions, the driver’s cabin felt surprisingly compact from the inside. The steering wheel was massive, a commanding presence, yet other elements like the mirrors seemed proportionally small. Parking and tight maneuvers, tasks easily accomplished in my van, appeared to be a significant undertaking in this old Mercedes truck.
However, the initial intimidation quickly gave way to fascination. The driving experience, though demanding, was deeply rewarding. The true highlight was the cavernous space in the back. The cargo area stretched approximately 2.3 meters wide and a remarkable 5 meters long, translating to over 10 square meters of potential living space—a substantial upgrade from the 6 square meters in my van. Stepping into the back felt like entering a spacious apartment, a blank canvas brimming with possibilities for customization and comfortable living.
Despite the undeniable appeal, practicality soon tempered my enthusiasm for this particular Mercedes 911. A cursory inspection revealed signs of age and wear that signaled significant maintenance needs. Rust was visible in several areas, and oil leaks indicated potential mechanical issues. Ultimately, the truck’s condition, combined with its asking price, didn’t align with my immediate needs and budget. Although a purchase wasn’t in the cards, the encounter was far from a disappointment. The seller and I engaged in a lengthy and enjoyable conversation, bonding over our shared appreciation for these old Mercedes trucks. Leaving that day, I knew this specific 911 wasn’t the right fit, and I still pondered whether the trade-off in driving ease for increased living space was something I was ready for. Yet, the seed was sown. The Mercedes 911 had captured my imagination, prompting me to delve deeper into the world of these classic trucks.
Serendipitous Sightings in Berlin Fuel the Fascination
Fate, it seemed, had more in store for my burgeoning interest in old Mercedes trucks. During a trip to Berlin in mid-September to visit family and friends, these vehicles appeared to be following me. While cycling through the city after work, I began noticing them with surprising frequency.
Alt text: A vintage Mercedes 911 truck parked on a Berlin street, illustrating the enduring presence and appeal of old Mercedes trucks in urban environments.
Alt text: Another sighting of a classic Mercedes 911 truck in Berlin, emphasizing the growing trend and interest in restoring and utilizing old Mercedes trucks for various purposes.
The more I saw these old Mercedes trucks navigating the city streets, the stronger the desire grew to experience owning one myself. The practical considerations, however, remained. I knew I didn’t want the burden of maintaining two classic vehicles concurrently. Acquiring a truck would likely mean parting ways with my beloved Mercedes 508 van, a thought that was both exciting and unsettling. I cherished my 508, a vehicle I considered almost perfect in its compact yet comprehensive design. It offered everything I needed: a shower, kitchen, bed, wood-burning stove, table, seating, ample storage, and even a toilet, all within a relatively small footprint.
My Mercedes 508 had always been my benchmark for the ideal adventure vehicle. Its maneuverability and parking ease were unmatched. However, its compact size also presented limitations. Comfortable sleeping required converting the seating area into a bed, a daily routine. While the pillows were adequate, they couldn’t compare to the comfort of a dedicated mattress. The shower cabin, though functional, necessitated removing the toilet beforehand. Storage capacity also became strained when traveling with companions for extended periods. For over four years, I had adapted to and thrived in the 6 square meters of my van. But the Mercedes 911 encounter in Munich had opened my eyes to the undeniable benefits of more space.
The Decision: Embracing the Truck Life
Countless nights were spent weighing the pros and cons of truck ownership. The allure of increased living space and the challenge of a new project ultimately tipped the scales. I decided to take the plunge and explore the possibility of owning an old Mercedes truck. The inherent appeal of these vehicles, combined with the understanding that I could always revert to my van if truck life proved unsuitable, made the decision feel less daunting and more like an exciting experiment.
With a renewed sense of purpose, I began to refine my criteria for the ideal old Mercedes truck. Extensive research led me to the Mercedes 1113 model, powered by the robust OM352 engine, preferably with a turbocharger for enhanced performance. Single tires on the rear axle, on-demand four-wheel drive for off-road capability, and, crucially, all the necessary documentation to register the truck as a classic motorhome were essential requirements. Rust-free or minimal rust and sound mechanical condition were also paramount. Regarding the living cabin, I remained flexible. Whether it was completely empty, poorly designed, or already aligned with my needs, I was open to options. I was prepared to invest time and effort in customizing a basic cabin or pay a premium for one that already met my requirements.
Discovering a Mercedes 1113 Gem
Having clearly defined my ideal old Mercedes truck, the search became more focused and efficient. Just days later, an advertisement for a 1969 Mercedes 1113 for sale north of Berlin appeared online. It seemed almost too good to be true.
Alt text: Frontal view of a Mercedes 1113 truck, highlighting its imposing size and classic Mercedes-Benz grill, a sought-after model among old Mercedes truck enthusiasts.
Seeing the Mercedes 1113 in person was breathtaking. Its sheer size was even more imposing than the 911 I had seen in Munich. The tires were massive, dwarfing those of the previous truck. Parked next to it, my van looked like a miniature toy.
Alt text: Side-by-side comparison of a Mercedes 508D van and a Mercedes 1113 truck, emphasizing the significant size difference and illustrating the appeal of upgrading to a larger old Mercedes truck.
Initially, I had reservations about the large alcove extending over the driver’s cabin. Was it too bulky? Was it aesthetically unappealing?
Alt text: Side profile of the Mercedes 1113 truck, showcasing the alcove design and the overall proportions of this classic old Mercedes truck conversion.
Upon closer inspection, however, my concerns dissipated. The alcove didn’t appear disproportionate, and the truck’s overall aesthetic was surprisingly harmonious. I also recognized the alcove’s practical advantage: it provided an additional 3.5 square meters of space, perfect for a permanent bed. This meant the entire 10 square meters in the rear cabin could be dedicated to a proper bathroom, kitchen, living, and working area. The cabin’s wooden construction also offered flexibility; if I truly disliked the alcove, it could be removed.
The interior was spartan but functional: a wood-burning stove, a cupboard, and a countertop with a gas cooker and sink.
Alt text: Interior view of the Mercedes 1113 cabin, showing the simple yet functional wooden build, offering a glimpse into the potential for customization in old Mercedes truck conversions.
The wall cladding was basic, and there was no bathroom, table, electrical system, solar panels, or water system. Paradoxically, this simplicity was appealing. It meant I wouldn’t be paying for features I didn’t want and could customize the cabin entirely to my specifications. The feeling of spaciousness inside was remarkable. It truly felt like standing in a small apartment, not a vehicle. I was thoroughly impressed.
The alcove also offered an unexpected benefit: it had protected the driver’s cabin and chassis from years of exposure to the elements. The generous chassis clearance ensured excellent ventilation beneath the wooden cabin. The truck’s overall technical condition was remarkable for its age.
Alt text: Close-up view of the Mercedes 1113 cabin interior, highlighting the well-maintained condition for a 52-year-old vehicle and the potential for creating a comfortable living space in an old Mercedes truck.
This old Mercedes truck, 52 years young, and 17 years older than my van, was in surprisingly good shape. Rust was minimal and easily manageable. Inspecting the mechanical components reinforced the impression of diligent maintenance, far superior to the Mercedes 911 I had examined in Munich.
Sealing the Deal and the Journey Home
The seller was a genuinely pleasant person, and we connected immediately. Hours flew by as we discussed the truck’s history. He had acquired it from a friend who had originally converted this former firetruck into a mobile home. He provided invoices and extensive documentation detailing the original owner’s investments in the truck. The base vehicle was clearly a well-preserved gem. The seller had only owned the truck for about a year before the pandemic disrupted his plans, forcing him to reconsider his projects. Consequently, he hadn’t had the opportunity to invest significant time in the truck’s upkeep. While the base vehicle was in excellent condition, the wooden cabin needed a fresh coat of paint. However, given my intention to renovate the cabin anyway, this was a minor concern. My primary focus was the exceptional condition of the base vehicle.
The deal was struck quickly. Suddenly, I was the proud owner of a Mercedes 1113! Excitement surged through me.
Homeward Bound: Berlin to Bavaria in Classic Mercedes Style
Still lacking the proper license to legally drive such a truck, I spent another two weeks around Berlin with my van, waiting for my father to join me and assist in transferring the old Mercedes truck to my friends’ farm in Bavaria, where the real work would begin.
On a sunny Saturday, we embarked on the 700km journey across Germany, a convoy of two classic Mercedes vehicles.
We made several stops along the way, allowing me to check the truck’s mechanics and ensure everything was running smoothly.
Alt text: A rest stop during the transfer of the Mercedes 1113, showing the spacious cabin and the journey of bringing this old Mercedes truck to its new home.
Everything performed flawlessly, and we continued mile after mile.
Alt text: The Mercedes 1113 cruising on the German Autobahn, symbolizing the adventure and freedom associated with owning an old Mercedes truck.
Late that night, we finally arrived at the farm in Bavaria without incident.
Alt text: The Mercedes 1113 safely parked at the farm in Bavaria, marking the beginning of a new chapter and the restoration project for this old Mercedes truck.
The next morning, seeing the “big brother” parked beside my van was a comical and satisfying sight.
Alt text: A heartwarming image of the Mercedes 508D van and the newly acquired Mercedes 1113 truck parked together, representing the transition to a larger old Mercedes truck and the start of an exciting new project.
I was filled with immense joy and anticipation, eager to embark on this new adventure and breathe new life into this magnificent old Mercedes truck. The journey into the world of vintage overland vehicles had just begun.
