Mercedes-Benz 260D Pullman Landaulet (W138)

The 260 D is the world's first series-produced diesel-engined passenger car.

In February 1936 at the Berlin Motor Show, Daimler-Benz presented the 260 D in the form of a six-seater pullman landaulet, 13 units of which had been built since July 1935. From September 1936, the 260 D is available in a range of different body variants. In addition to the pullman landaulet, there are three other versions, the closed pullman sedan, the four/five‑seater sedan and the four/five‑seater Convertible B; all of which are carryovers from the discontinued long-wheelbase 200 (W21).

One year later, a more modern 260 D was released.  The facelifted version has a sleeker, less upright radiator shell. Somewhat smaller headlamps were attached directly to the fenders instead of a transverse rod in front of the radiator.  The six and seven seater bodies were restyled to provide more room and a more stately appearance.  The front and rear track was increased on all models and a larger fuel tank was installed, moving from the engine compartment to the rear of the vehicle.

1938 saw the installation of a new synchromesh four-seed transmission, new rear shock absorbers and a more rugged bumpers.  Most importantly, an innovative electrically heated glow plug to make cold starts easier.

1939 saw no major improvements and the focus was on a new 230 (W153).  The 260 D was discontinued at some point during the 1940 model year.