DFW Car & Toy Museum Acquires Rare 'Strawberry' Red 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300C Sedan

The DFW Car & Toy Museum has acquired a 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300C Sedan finished in its original factory-issued 'Strawberry' red (DB543), marking a significant addition to the museum's growing collection of automotive treasures. This particular vehicle stands out as an extraordinary color choice for one of the most powerful and conservative luxury sedans of its era, challenging conventional expectations of 1950s automotive design.

Known internally as the W186, the Mercedes-Benz 300 series served as the brand's flagship long before the legendary 300SL gained international recognition. The model earned the nickname 'Adenauer' after German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, who utilized a fleet of specially built examples for official use. During its production era, the 300C competed directly with luxury marques including Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Cadillac for favor among global leaders and business elites, offering an elite driving experience that balanced dignity with daring performance.

Mechanically, this 300C features a 3.0-liter SOHC inline-six engine fed by twin Solex carburetors and paired with a 3-speed Borg-Warner automatic transmission. The vehicle's advanced engineering includes independent front suspension and a coil-sprung rear swing axle, reflecting the cutting-edge design philosophy Mercedes-Benz maintained even in its heaviest, most luxurious sedans. These technical features contributed to both superior ride quality and handling characteristics that defined the brand's reputation for engineering excellence.

What distinguishes this specific automobile is its rare color combination and exceptional preservation. The factory build sheet confirms the unique 'Strawberry' paint color, an unexpected yet elegant hue for a model typically ordered in more subdued tones. Additional notable features include a full-length Webasto sunroof, chrome-on-brass exterior trim, and a meticulously preserved interior with original VDO instrumentation, chrome switchgear, a Becker Mexico radio, and period-correct upholstery details that collectively evoke the grandeur of 1950s automotive luxury.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, described the vehicle as 'a showstopper—not just for its presence and condition, but for its individuality.' He emphasized the rarity of finding a luxury sedan from the 1950s that successfully combines dignified presence with bold character. The museum's collection continues to expand, with the new facility located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth offering 150,000 square feet of exhibition space. Visitors can explore the collection during operating hours from Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with additional information available through the museum's website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

With production numbers limited to only 885 examples in 1956 and just 1,432 units produced in total, the Mercedes-Benz 300C remains a highly collectible piece of mid-century automotive history. This particular 'Strawberry' red example represents one of the most visually striking and well-preserved specimens within this exclusive production run, offering museum visitors a rare opportunity to experience automotive design that defied conventional expectations while maintaining the highest standards of luxury and engineering.