Mercedes-Benz 300d (W189): The Adenauer from Twente soil

Driving at a high level. That's no empty phrase when you sit behind the enormous wheel of a Mercedes-Benz 300d (W189). We delve into the story of a gray 1959 Adenauer, owned by John Blokhuis from Twente. A man who isn't necessarily a Mercedes fan, but who fell for the ultimate post-war status symbol from Stuttgart.

Photos: Max de Krijger for Auto Motor Klassiek

The Mercedes-Benz 300d (W189) was the final and most refined evolution of the so-called "big three hundred," internally designated W186 and W189. The 300d debuted in 1957 and remained in production until 1962. A total of 3077 examples were built. This made it exclusive then and rare now. This wasn't a car for the middle class; it was a rolling statement of power.

The Mercedes-Benz 300d was the top of the W189 series

Under the long hood lies the 2996cc M189 six-cylinder engine with mechanical Bosch fuel injection. No more carburetors, but direct fuel injection, like the one Mercedes used in the 300 SL. It produces 160 hp at 5300 rpm. Impressive for the late 1950s, although that power still has to move over 1780 kg. Two tons, as owners often call it. The result is not a sprint machine, but a smooth, almost silent power source that does its job with dignity.

The 300d distinguished itself from previous 300 versions by its standard power steering and improved brakes. The car had independent suspension all around, with a low-mounted swing axle at the rear. This resulted in a comfortable ride that was considered unparalleled in its day. A top speed of around 165 km/h (103 mph) was achievable, although 120 km/h (72 mph) feels plenty fast enough in such a moving saloon.

Most 300ds came with a four-speed automatic transmission, but the car from Twente has a four-speed manual. That makes it extra special. The gearshifts are long and smooth. No rush, no stress. This is driving as a ceremony.

Adenauer and state power

The nickname Adenauer isn't an afterthought, but a historical reference. Chancellor Konrad Adenauer was transported in a 300 during the reconstruction of West Germany. He owned several, including stretched Pullman models. The car thus became the symbol of political power and economic revival. Ministers, ambassadors, and industrialists chose the same mode of transport.

The Mercedes-Benz 300d (W189) was available as a Limousine, Cabriolet D, and Landaulet. The latter, in particular, with its folding rear roof for official occasions, underscored its ceremonial character. Everything about this car exudes stateliness. From the woodwork to the map-reading lights in the rear. From the thick seats to the almost whisper-quiet engine.

Restoring without a safety net

That John Blokhuis took on a completely rotten example speaks volumes about his character. The car was once offered as a wreck in Bad Bentheim. "Anyone buying this must be crazy," he was told. Perhaps they were. But he saw what it could become.

The restoration took years and cost a fortune. Oversized pistons, original trim, a star on the hood for 100 Deutschmarks at the time. A donor car helped to merge the two wrecks into one cohesive whole. The engine overhaul was outsourced, and the woodwork was partially tackled by a skilled craftsman friend. The result is not an over-restored show car, but a properly rebuilt 300d with an eye for detail. Even the tires have the correct diagonal look, though they are modern radials for better handling.

He drives it a maximum of a thousand kilometers a year. Never faster than 80 km/h, even though it's technically capable of twice that. Because speed is secondary. It's about the experience. The feeling of being in a time capsule where craftsmanship was more important than production speed.

(See more photos below.)