1903 Mercedes-Simplex 60 HP Roi des Belges

VIN: 2924

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1903 Mercedes-Simplex 60 HP  Roi des Belges

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Vehicle specs

  • Chassis/VIN

    2924

  • Transmission type

    Standard

  • Engine Type

    L4

  • Horsepower

    60

  • Induction

    1x1

  • Interior Color

    Dark Green leather

  • Exterior Color

    Green

Vehicle details

Notes and observations recorded by Hagerty staff.

Equipment

9236/60hp, 4-speed, dual chain drive, wood artillery wheels, water-cooled rear drum brakes.

Condition

#4 Fair

Has visible flaws to the naked eye. Runs fine, but could use mechanical or cosmetic attention.

About Hagerty’s condition ratingsClose

Brass era masterpiece. Very early car to wear the Mercedes name. Ordered new by British publishing magnate Alfred CW Harmsworth, set fastest times at 1903 Nice Speed Week and Castlewan Hill Climb, then fitted with the current coachwork. Cosmetically restored and run in the London-to-Brighton Veteran Car Run in the 1950s. Went into the Museum in Beaulieu in the 1960s and stayed there for 60 years while remaining the Harmsworth family's ownership. Paint coming off the chassis and suspension. Cracked leather. Flat paint. Dull finishes everywhere. But arguably better for it. London to Brighton eligible. Impressive in its preservation and historical significance. If you asked the average person what the most expensive car here is, few would pick this 60-horsepower car from 121 years ago. But it is the most expensive. By a long shot.