The 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680 S Torpedo-Sport “Cannes” by Saoutchik is among the most significant pre-war automobiles scheduled to cross the block at RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction next month. Estimated at $5 million to $6.5 million, this extraordinary one-off combines Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering engineering with the celebrated craftsmanship of French coachbuilder Saoutchik, making it one of the finest surviving examples of the marque’s supercharged grand touring legacy.
Developed during the formative years following the merger of Daimler and Benz in 1926, the Type S represented a new benchmark for high-performance luxury motoring. Its 6.8-liter supercharged inline-six incorporated larger valves, dual carburetors, and an enlarged Roots-type supercharger producing approximately 7 psi of boost. Rated at 26/120/180 horsepower—reflecting taxable, naturally aspirated, and supercharged outputs—the sophisticated chassis featured a rigid engine-transmission assembly that significantly improved structural integrity and handling, innovations that established Mercedes-Benz as a dominant force in both performance and prestige.
This particular chassis, number 35903, was commissioned in July 1928 by French aristocrat, renowned art collector, and racing enthusiast Oliver de Rivaud, Comte de la Raffinière. Delivered initially as an open tourer, it was subsequently entrusted to Saoutchik, which transformed it into the striking Torpedo-Sport “Cannes” body style. Distinguished by its flowing lines, disappearing convertible top, and the rare absence of roll-up windows, the bespoke design was showcased at the 1929 Salon Animé de la Carrosserie in Paris, where its elegant cream-and-red color scheme attracted considerable attention.
The Mercedes later passed through several notable European owners before arriving in the United States during the late 1950s. It spent an impressive 55 years in the collection of distinguished enthusiast H. Dieter Holterbosch, remaining largely unseen by the public before changing hands in 2013. Recognizing its remarkable originality, the current owners commissioned an exhaustive concours-level restoration, supported by extensive historical research that verified the authenticity of its chassis, bodywork, engine, trim, and even upholstery materials. Restored to its original factory presentation, the car earned a class award at the 2025 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, reaffirming its place among the world’s most significant pre-war classics.
As one of the finest surviving Mercedes-Benz Type S models and the only known example of its unique Saoutchik “Cannes” configuration, this exceptional automobile represents a rare opportunity for collectors seeking a concours-quality masterpiece with impeccable provenance, engineering significance, and timeless coachbuilt artistry.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
