Daimler-Benz AG emerged from World War II in precarious health, with plants that were largely rubble.

Until 1951, the only Mercedes passenger cars were continuations of the prewar 170V, a modest middle-class car that had been the best-seller in the 1930s.

The company did not return to the luxury market until 1951, when the Mercedes 300 was introduced at the first postwar Frankfurt Motor Show.

Built on a 120-inch wheelbase, the 300 was powered by a 2,996cc ohc six, and available as a sedan or four-door convertible.

The 300 quickly became the state limousine of the Federal Republic of Germany, particularly favored by Chancellor Konrad Adenauer during his administration, which lasted until 1963.

These cars are known as “Adenauer Mercedes” to this day.

The fourth iteration of the Adenauer Mercedes, the 300d, chassis code W189, was introduced in August 1957.

The sedan had become a pillarless design, and a longer wheelbase added comfort and prestige.

The convertible model, formally d...