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FOR SALE: 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300d “Dora” – A Rare South African IconAn exceptionally rare and elegant classic, the 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300d—affectionately known as “Dora”—is offered for sale. Officially marketed as the 300d Adenauer, this distinguished model shares its engine, chassis, and suspension with the iconic 300SL Gullwing. As one of the true flagships of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, it stands as a remarkable piece of the brand’s heritage.What makes Dora especially significant is her rarity. Fewer than 100 right-hand drive examples are believed to have been produced, making this not only a scarce find in South Africa but a highly desirable collectible worldwide.History & Provenance Dora’s story is deeply rooted in South African automotive history. Delivered new in 1958 to Mercedes-Benz Pretoria, she was placed on the showroom floor as a display centerpiece—not originally intended for sale. She remained there until 1964, when a young man captivated by her beauty persuaded the dealership to let her go.During her years on display in Sunnyside, Pretoria, she captured the imagination of a young boy named Steffan. With encouragement from his father—also a Mercedes-Benz enthusiast—he developed a lasting admiration for the car.In 2015, decades later, Steffan received a call from someone selling a 1958 Adenauer among other classics. Upon visiting the property, he discovered a slightly neglected but rust-free example raised on blocks. As he shared his childhood memory of Dora, the seller phoned his father—the original buyer—who confirmed this was indeed the same car from the Pretoria showroom. Steffan purchased Dora on the spot, bringing her story full circle.Restoration & Current Condition Steffan undertook the restoration with passion, beginning with a full strip-down and respray. The project paused during the Covid-19 pandemic, after which Dora was passed to another collector who completed the restoration in 2023.Today, she presents beautifully: Body & Paint: High-quality respray with elegant, glossy finish. Interior: Fully reupholstered in imported leather, capturing the luxury and refinement expected from an Adenauer. Engine Bay: Clean and detailed, featuring the fully rebuilt 3.0L straight-six engine that runs smoothly and reliably. Since completion, Dora has been driven sparingly and cared for meticulously. This is her first appearance on the open market—presenting a rare opportunity to acquire a historically significant Mercedes-Benz with remarkable provenance.Final Thoughts “Dora” is more than a classic car—she is a living piece of Mercedes-Benz and South African motoring history. Her rarity, elegance, and deeply personal story make her a standout addition to any serious collection. Serious buyers only. Viewing strictly by appointment.

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