Vehicle: 1985 500SEC, 1991 190E 2.6, bought 07/08 with 50k original miles.
Location: Los Angeles
Posts: 15,155
Another possible owner of the car could have been Cambodia's Prince Sihanook, who always had a residence in Pyongyang, and a close relationship with the DPRK's ruling Family?
Yes, I did the MBCLUB.ru site decode with no results.
I also received a FAX from the MB Classic Centre with a copy of the data card but it also listed 'Option 363 - Designation Not Listed'
It must have meant something?!?
Maybe they just throw these in to f**k with us!
Was this from the US classic center or the German one? I guess the ultimate source would be the factory itself. Maybe some old factory worker will get a twinkle in his eye and say (in German), "Ah, yes, Option 363! not many people remember what that was..."
Seriously, if you have the time, energy, and patience, I'd ask the Germans. They might know. As of now, though, I'm putting my money on Option 363 being the white-out grille and wipers. Or, less likely, maybe bulletproofing/light armor -- any evidence of thicker glass, underbody reinforcements, etc?
A small update on my attempt to crack the history of my baby!
I emailed the MB Classic Centre in Irvine, CA requesting more information on Option 363 about two weeks ago. I've heard nothing back yet.
When I had my audio system upgraded, they removed the rear seats and found some coins. I'm not a collector myself but from what I can tell, they are Japanese.
I can only assume that the car was originally sold in the DPRK (Perhaps to one of the Kim's) but at some point in it's life made it to Japan. I don't believe it came over via a consulate or embassy as Japan and DPRK have no diplomatic ties and a 560SEC isn't quite the official-type car a 560SEL would be.
Who in the DPRK would have been able/allowed/could afford to own, let alone to export this car??
As Janos said above, This is getting verrrrry interesting indeed! Oh if these walls could talk....
A small update on my attempt to crack the history of my baby!
I emailed the MB Classic Centre in Irvine, CA requesting more information on Option 363 about two weeks ago. I've heard nothing back yet.
When I had my audio system upgraded, they removed the rear seats and found some coins. I'm not a collector myself but from what I can tell, they are Japanese.
I can only assume that the car was originally sold in the DPRK (Perhaps to one of the Kim's) but at some point in it's life made it to Japan. I don't believe it came over via a consulate or embassy as Japan and DPRK have no diplomatic ties and a 560SEC isn't quite the official-type car a 560SEL would be.
Who in the DPRK would have been able/allowed/could afford to own, let alone to export this car??
As Janos said above, This is getting verrrrry interesting indeed! Oh if these walls could talk....
- Steve
One thing I can tell you is that alot of cars go missing through NK and China it's quite an industry it could have even been "revinned" but a car with exactly the same options would be pretty rare. Who knows it could have been a defector who ran the DMZ in his 560
Just had a thought, is there any way to crack what Option 363 is?
- Steve
Well, a copy of your 560SEC title and a respectful request to the Daimler Chrysler Historical Archives in Stuttgart for a copy (in English, please) of the factory build sheet might clear it up.
It takes about a month but they will answer.
Por ejemplo:
___________________________________
10 December 2006
Dr. Harry Niemann
Daimler Chrysler Historical Archive
Postfach 60-02-02
7000 Stuttgart
Germany
Dear sir:
I write to you requesting a copy of the factory Build Sheet for my 1989 560 SEC
I have enclosed a copy of the title showing that I am the legal owner of the vehicle.
The vehicle identification number is:
I believe this vehicle may have been delivered to a retail purchaser in the Democratic People's Republic of (North) Korea and am particularly interested in whether this may have been the case
Please send the Information to:
Many thanks for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely yours,
_________________
I sent a letter like that which got me an extensive build sheet with every option listed, 4 pages.
I'll give it a shot, I already got something similar from the Classic Centre in Irvine. A four page FAX but Option 363 was listed as 'Designation Not Recorded'.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
Linear Mode
