Description
The Mercedes-Benz 320 Pullman Limousine 3.4 was the most imposing and luxurious closed-body model of the late W142 series, introduced when Mercedes-Benz upgraded its elegant 3.2-litre straight-six to the smoother, more powerful 3.4-litre version. This final evolution of the 320 Pullman combined stately proportions, refined engineering and Sindelfingen’s finest coachwork, creating a grand formal limousine designed for chauffeur use, executive transport and prestigious private ownership. It stood just below the flagship Mercedes models of the era and represented one of the last great luxury limousines produced before the Second World War.
At the heart of the Pullman Limousine 3.4 was the enlarged 3.4-litre inline-six, producing around 79–80 horsepower. More significantly, the engine delivered richer torque and smoother low-speed flexibility than the earlier unit. This gave the big Pullman a more relaxed and confident character on the road, allowing it to move with quiet authority even when fully loaded. The engine’s quiet running, gentle delivery and long-legged nature suited the limousine’s formal personality, making long-distance travel smoother and less demanding. It was paired with a four-speed manual gearbox featuring synchromesh on the higher gears, which helped the chauffeur manage the car’s considerable size with grace and precision.
The Pullman Limousine was built on the longest wheelbase available in the W142 programme, giving it exceptional interior space and a commanding stance. The strong box-section chassis provided the rigidity necessary for a large, fully enclosed body, while the independent front suspension with coil springs and swing-axle rear system offered a comfortable, composed ride. Hydraulic brakes on all four wheels added a measure of safety and predictable stopping performance that placed the W142 series ahead of many contemporaries. The long wheelbase gave the Pullman exceptional stability, especially on open roads, where it glided with the smooth, floating gait expected of a formal German limousine.
The Sindelfingen-crafted body gave the 320 Pullman Limousine a dignified and distinguished appearance. Its tall radiator grille, sweeping fenders, elongated passenger compartment and high roofline created a profile that conveyed authority and refinement. The long rear body section accommodated generous seating arrangements, and the large doors made entry and exit easy for passengers in formal attire. The clean, flowing lines reflected the more modern aesthetic of late-1930s Mercedes design, while chrome accents and carefully shaped panels contributed to an overall impression of understated luxury rather than flamboyance.
Inside, the 320 Pullman Limousine 3.4 offered one of the most comfortable and spacious cabins in its class. The rear compartment was the heart of the design, featuring ample legroom, high-quality upholstery and thoughtful accommodations for distinguished passengers. Depending on specification, the car could be fitted with fold-out jump seats, creating a flexible layout for four to six occupants. Materials included fine leather or durable cloth, matched with polished wood or elegantly finished metal trim. The chauffeur’s compartment was simpler and more functional but still well crafted, featuring clear instrumentation and durable fittings designed for professional use. The separation between front and rear compartments, either visual or physical, reinforced the Pullman’s intended role as a chauffeur-driven vehicle.
On the road, the Pullman Limousine 3.4 delivered a serene and composed driving experience. The enlarged engine allowed the car to maintain smooth, steady speeds with minimal effort, and the suspension filtered out road imperfections with ease. The long wheelbase gave the car a stately rhythm, ideal for ceremonial duties, executive transport or long-distance journeys. While not designed for speed or agility, the Pullman excelled in comfort, stability and refinement—qualities that mattered most to its intended clientele.
The 3.4-litre Pullman Limousine was produced in limited numbers, as it was a premium vehicle in a market increasingly overshadowed by economic uncertainty and the approach of war. Its combination of luxury, durability and mechanical sophistication made it a popular choice among institutions, governmental bodies and wealthy private owners who required prestige and practicality in equal measure.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 320 Pullman Limousine 3.4 is regarded as one of the most important pre-war Mercedes luxury cars outside the flagship super-luxury classes. Its rarity, imposing presence and refined engineering make it a prized collector’s item. Surviving examples showcase the height of Sindelfingen craftsmanship, the elegance of late-1930s Mercedes design and the smooth, effortless character of the enlarged six-cylinder engine. It stands as a distinguished and historically significant example of Mercedes-Benz prestige motoring on the eve of the Second World War.