Mercedes-Benz 260 D
The world's first series-production diesel passenger car.
- Power
- 45 bhp
- Top speed
- 59 mph
- Est. value
- $40k–$85k
About the Mercedes-Benz 260 D
Introduced at the 1936 Berlin Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz 260 D (W138) made history as the first diesel-powered passenger car to enter series production. It utilised a four-cylinder engine based on a six-cylinder truck unit, featuring Bosch fuel injection and a pre-chamber combustion system. While its performance was modest, its exceptional fuel economy made it an immediate favourite for taxi drivers and long-distance travellers. Today, it is regarded as the pioneer of the diesel saloon, proving that compression-ignition engines were viable for refined road cars.
Mercedes-Benz 260 D specs
The Mercedes-Benz 260 D produces 45 bhp (34 kW) and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 59 mph (95 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | 260 D |
| Trim | 2.6 |
| Years | 1936–1940 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 1,967 built |
| Engine | 2.6-litre inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,545 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 45 bhp (34 kW) at 3,000 rpm |
| Torque | 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 3,200 rpm |
| Top speed | 59 mph (95 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,530 kg (3,373 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 29 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercedes-Benz 260 D worth?
A typical Mercedes-Benz 260 D is estimated to be worth $40,000 – $85,000 (about £30,000 – £63,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercedes-Benz 260 D rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz 260 D is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 70 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercedes-Benz 260 D fun facts
- The 260 D was so efficient for its time that it could travel approximately 400 miles on a single tank of fuel, a remarkable feat in the 1930s.
- Early models were primarily sold as six-seater 'Pullman-Landaulets' for use as taxis before the standard saloon body style became more common.
- The engine was so durable that many 260 D units were still being used as taxis in Germany well into the 1950s.
