1954 Mercedes Benz 300 Adenauer Sunroof Sedan Project

  • Location: Lawrence, Kansas, United States
  • Make: Mercedes-Benz
  • Model: 300-Series
  • Type: Sedan
  • Year: 1954
  • Mileage: 55587
  • VIN: 4500507
  • Color: Silver
  • Engine size: Chevy V8
  • Number of cylinders: 8
  • Fuel: Gasoline
  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Drive type: RWD
  • Interior color: Tan
  • Drive side: Left-hand drive
  • Options: Sunroof
  • Vehicle Title: Clean

1954 Mercedes-Benz 300-Series Description

I am offering my 1954 Mercedes Benz 300 Adenauer sunroof VIN 4500507 project for sale. On the data plate 300-1 186015 which designates sliding sunroof. It has been sitting for the past 25 or so years. The odometer reading is 55,587. The true mileage is unknown. The car was purchased by the previous owner who then proceeded to have the engine swapped from the original inline 6 to a chevy small block V8. I was told the engine is a 327 but it is likely a later 350. This was done professionally and while being use, it was a reliable driver. At the time of the engine swap a GM automatic transmission was installed as well as power steering.


The interior was replaced with brown leather in the 1980’s prior to the previous owner. It is in nice condition. There are no rips or tears. The headliner was also replaced and is in excellent condition. The wood has few areas of water damage at the lower corners of the back window but generally it is very good with a nice satin finish. I have not opened the sunroof .


The body panels are straight . The paint is poor and flaking. It was likely done in the 1980’s. The car was originally black. Paint code 40G. The gaps or shut lines are consistent as seen. The driver side rear door is out a little. There is some rust staining at the lower door edges but no perforations. The chrome is unrestored and looks good. I find no evidence of major collision damage.


The belly pan is solid as seen in the photos. I don't see any evidence of significant rust. There are no rust holes. A cross member was welded to the frame to support the power steering rack. A center section of the frame was removed so the transmission would clear. That piece of metal was saved.


The engine as stated has been converted to a GM V8. The firewall and inner fenders have not been cut or altered.The car sat idle for 25 or so years. The engine was not seized. It was properly drained and cleaned before it was started. It now starts easily and runs well with no unusual noises. The carb is a Quadrajet 4 BBL. The 3 speed GM automatic transmission shifts without trouble. There is no neutral safety switch so it will start in gear so it is unsafe. The tires will hold air but they are rotten and can’t be trusted. I have only driven in my driveway. The brakes are almost non existent. They will require a complete rebuild. They will stop the car so it can be driven to a transport trailer. The emergency brake does work. The car was an automatic originally.


I have the Mercedes engine which is included. The engine casting number is 860 110 901. Also 30E52. There is a tag on the block that is difficult to read. I believe it reads 1186/186920 1535/52. It was not stored in ideal conditions. It was disassembled and crated but exposed to temperature and humidity changes so there is rust. I’m am not an expert so I cannot determine if it is the original. It does have a casting date on the block that appears to be 1952. The engine appears to be almost complete but I cannot guarantee this. Undoubtedly, there are parts and brackets missing. There is no fuel pump. According to the previous owner, the water pump failed and the decision was made to do the conversion. The original automatic transmission is included also.




I have a clear Kansas antique title.


The complete history of this car is not known. To be a good driver at a minimum, it will need tires, a complete brake refurbish, as well as a neutral safety switch for the transmission. I am reluctant to sell but I have too many projects. Ask any question and I will do my best to answer it honestly. My Ebay feedback supports this. I want this car to go to a good home and I want the buyer to be happy with the purchase and know what they are buying. I have many photos and I am willing to take more. I will have photos posted on Photo Bucket. Contact me for the link. It will be available for inspection by appointment during the auction. Ideally, it should be inspected prior to purchase like any other car. There may have been concerns not mentioned. The car is sold “as is, where is” without guarantee written or implied. The car will be picked up at my house. I will not deliver. I can help load. I don't think the engine and parts will fit in the car. I require a $500.00 payment within 24 hours and the balance in 5 days. The car must be picked up within 30 days. It will not leave here until satisfactory payment has been made. If you cannot meet these requests, please do not bid. Thanks for your interest.