Description
The L 6500 was the heaviest truck in the Mercedes lineup during the 30s and late 40s. It was designed for truly heavy-duty transport and long-distance work.
The “6500” stood for a payload of 6,5 tonnes – which was enormous at a time when most trucks were only allowed to carry between 2 and 4 tonnes.
It was first introduced in 1936 and was rebuilt after the war from 1949 onwards, when Mercedes restarted its truck programme.
Everything about the L 6500 was large and solidly built – thick leaf springs, heavy axles, and mechanically operated systems. This made it easy to maintain but also heavy to ride.
Only a few restored examples of the L 6500 exist, making it a rare heritage vehicle.
The Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart has one, and you occasionally see them at vintage truck events.
