In 1930, German car maker Mercedes decided to produce a limousine "fit for a king." Forever known as the 'Grand Mercedes', the 770K Mercedes Limousine was eventually pressed into service by noneother than Germany's Chancellor, soon after he became Reich Chancellor of Germany in 1933. Its engineering and appointments were of a standard equal to none and even featured a handhold attached to the middle windshield so that dignitaries seated in the back of the vehicle could stand and wave to the crowd. The 8-cylinder engine could produce 150 horsepower, but was increased to 200 horsepower when the optional supercharger was engaged. In 1938, substantial improvements were made to the chassis and engine, which could now attain an impressive 230 horsepower.

The Grand Mercedes was used extensively by the Fuhrer whenever he attended special rallies, visited with the troops, or drove through the streets of Germany's cities. It was also used during Il Duce's reknowned trip to Munich in 1937 where he signed the Pact of Steel Treaty with Germany's Chancellor.

This particular 1:43 scale replica of the Grand Mercedes features the German Chancellor and Italian Dictator standing in the rear of the vehicle behind a seated driver. Comes in grey. Now in stock!

Dimensions:
Length: 4-inches
Width: 1-1/2-inches

Release Date: May 2013

Historical Account: "Roman Holiday" - Germany declared a Roman holiday for Mussolini when he visited Germany on September 24th, 1937. The German media said it best. "The destiny of Europe rides with the dictator of Italy, nearing Munich in triumph for his momentous conference with the German Chancellor. The stage is set for the meeting which means so much to the peace of an entire continent. This is history in the making, the handshake of dictatorships. Striding side by side, the two ex-corporals of the Great War seem to be in step today, and the whole world is asking, do they march together for conflict or for peace? Unusual is this mighty demonstration of Teutonic adulation for a modern Caesar. Since the days of other Caesars, the sons of the Rhine and of the Tiber have been natural foes. But for the moment, Rome and Berlin decide to let bygones be bygones. Returning Mussolini's hospitality of three years ago, Hitler parades his might for his brother dictator, perhaps to impress Italy, as well as the world, with his potential strength. For history shows that often the friends of today are the foes of tomorrow. Amid all this martial display, the dictators declare themselves for peace, and an apprehensive world hopes for the best."