Mercedes-Benz “Grosser Mercedes” Cabriolet D (W07) (1932–1938)

General information & model overview

Body & dimensions (W07 chassis class)

Engine specifications (W07 / M07 theme)

Drivetrain, chassis & brakes (W07)

Performance (approximate, condition-dependent)

Mercedes-Benz “Grosser Mercedes” Cabriolet D: body identity on the W07 Grosser chassis

The Grosser Mercedes Cabriolet D on the W07 chassis is a large formal open body for multi-seat ceremonial and social use. In Mercedes open-body language of the period, D typically signals four-door or strongly multi-seat formal convertible character relative to A/B intimacy. On the Typ 770 it is one of the principal open formal faces of the first-generation flagship.

Shared W07 mechanicals: 7,665 cc OHC eight, about 150/200 PS unblown/blown, four-speed gearbox, 3.75 m wheelbase boxed chassis — full detail on the Typ 770 hub.

Related large open styles: Cabriolet F, Tourenwagen; more compact open: A, B, C.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Design and coachwork

Design emphasis is multi-seat open formality: long sides, substantial folding top structure, and a cabin that can carry guests or official parties. Weather equipment is part of the mission, not an accessory.

Mass is higher than lighter open cuts. That mass rewrites brake fade risk, tyre load, and cooling demand. Restorations that prioritise paint over structure and top mechanics miss the functional product.

Partitions, jump seats, and rear compartment fittings appear on some formal open orders; verify rather than assume a single interior template.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Mechanical basis and driving character

On the road the Cabriolet D is a formal carriage that happens to be open. Progress is touring-paced. Supercharged power helps with gradients and decisive overtaking in period terms; it does not create modern sports dynamics.

Full passenger loads change handling and stopping distances. Test and evaluate with realistic weight. Mechanical servo brakes must be excellent before public use.

Parade and ceremonial itineraries suit the machine better than long high-speed modern routes. Secondary roads in good condition and conservative averages are the correct modern pattern.

Collecting and documentation

Formal open multi-door Grossers attract strong historical interest and equally strong restoration bills. Factor top, wood, and brightwork into any acquisition budget before paint.

Document identity carefully against Cabriolet F claims; letter misattribution is common in secondary descriptions.

Ownership: strengths and things to watch

Strengths

• Ceremonial multi-seat open role — core public image of open Grossers.
• Strong documentary trails — large open cars appear often in period photos.
• Complete W07 powertrain story — unblown and optional Kompressor themes.

Things to watch

• Top and rear wood — multi-door open mass multiplies cost.
• Brake fade with full cabin — period drums need excellent condition.
• D vs F paperwork — sales copy often exaggerates letter.
• Post-event grit — clean floor channels after processions.

Sibling comparisons

Cabriolet D is large multi-seat open ceremony on W07. F is usually more Pullman-extreme; A/B are more compact open cuts; Tourenwagen emphasises visibility over cabriolet formality. Confirm generation before comparing to any W150 D.

Legacy

Cabriolet D embodies multi-seat open ceremony on the first Grosser generation. Public imagination often treats “open Grosser” as this kind of car, which is why accurate D documentation matters for the whole family.

Conservation of tops and rear compartments is the practical legacy: without those assemblies, the ceremonial brief disappears.