Mercedes-Benz “Grosser Mercedes” Tourenwagen (W07) (1931–1938)

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” Tourenwagen: body identity on the W07 Grosser chassis

The Grosser Mercedes Tourenwagen on the W07 chassis is the open multi-seat touring and parade expression of the first-generation Typ 770. Unlike lettered cabriolets that emphasise convertible formal identity, the Tourenwagen language stresses open touring utility for multiple occupants—often the body seen in ceremonial processions where visibility of passengers is part of the function.

Mechanicals match the W07 flagship package on the Typ 770 hub: 7.7-litre eight, optional Kompressor, four-speed gearbox, long wheelbase, leaf-spring chassis.

Related open styles include the full cabriolet letter set from A through F.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Design and coachwork

Body design prioritises open-air multi-seat capacity and often simpler weather equipment than a fully finished formal cabriolet, though individual orders vary. Side screens, tonneau arrangements, and seating rows should be verified on the car.

Parade visibility can influence seating height and screen design. That functional requirement is historical, not theatrical invention for modern shows.

Corrosion at wing and sill junctions, wood in open body framing, and weather-gear completeness are central inspection items.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Mechanical basis and driving character

A Tourenwagen feels open and exposed relative to closed Pullman cars, while remaining a heavy formal chassis underneath. Wind, dust, and weather are normal operating conditions. Drivers must plan braking distances with full passenger loads.

Supercharged cars provide more decisive response when the blower is used; unblown cars rely on the eight’s inherent flexibility. Neither erases mechanical brake limits.

Later W150 tourers such as the W150 Tourenwagen share the open multi-seat idea on a more modern chassis—do not mix generation claims.

Collecting and documentation

Tourenwagen survivors are research magnets because open parade use left strong photographic trails. Photographs alone do not prove identity; chassis numbers do.

Budget for open-body conservation even if the car will be a static exhibit. Fabric and wood still age in museums without climate control.

Ownership: strengths and things to watch

Strengths

• Visibility mission — open multi-seat parade and touring function.
• Photo-history richness — processions left extensive image records.
• Distinct from cabriolets — equipment emphasis differs from lettered convertibles.

Things to watch

• Weather exposure — seats and floors take more abuse than closed cars.
• Mis-captioned sales photos — trust stamps over social media titles.
• Overload history — parade use stresses seat frames.
• Fake cabriolet restorations — resist converting a tourer into an F lookalike.

Sibling comparisons

Tourenwagen prioritises open multi-seat visibility rather than full formal cabriolet finish. Letter cabriolets A–F cover convertible formality bands; Stadt Coupé is the closed alternative. W150 Tourenwagen is the later-generation counterpart.

Legacy

The W07 Tourenwagen preserves the visibility mission of open multi-seat Grossers: people seen moving slowly among crowds. Restoring tourers into fake formal cabriolets erases that function.

Parade photo archives and chassis registers together form the real historical record for this body style.