Shirley Temple, the famous child actress turned U.S. Ambassador, had a unique piece of history associated with her – a 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300TE wagon. This Euro-spec wagon was her official vehicle during her time in Czechoslovakia and she brought it back to the U.S. with her. The car, now up for auction, is a utilitarian spec with a smooth inline-six engine and a four-speed automatic transmission. It features crank windows, manual seats, and cloth upholstery, showcasing the over-engineered quality of Mercedes cars from that era.
Shirley, now known as Shirley Temple Black after her marriage in 1950, served as the U.S. Ambassador to Czechoslovakia during a crucial time in history – the fall of the Berlin Wall. Her involvement in politics started with Henry Kissinger and led to her appointment as a delegate to the UN and later as an Ambassador. She was known for championing anti-communist activists and establishing diplomatic relations with the government of Václav Havel. The 300TE was her personal vehicle throughout her time in Czechoslovakia, reflecting her commitment to public service.
The car was brought to the U.S. in the early 1990s and was owned by Shirley until her passing in 2014. The auction for this celebrity-owned vehicle has no reserve, leaving it up to the market to determine its value. Whether the Shirley Temple ownership adds to its premium or not remains to be seen, but the new owner will have a Mercedes with a rich history attached to it.
In addition to owning this iconic vehicle, Shirley Temple is also commemorated in a new Shirley Temple soft drink launched by 7 Up. The auction for the 300TE ends on October 23, giving interested buyers a chance to own a piece of Hollywood and diplomatic history. Brendan McAleer, a writer and photographer with a passion for cars and their stories, provides valuable insights into the unique intersection between humanity and machinery, making this auction even more intriguing for car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
