Mercedes-Benz O 307

The Mercedes-Benz O 307 was a standard regional bus with a rear underfloor diesel engine, built by Daimler-Benz to the common specification for regional bus services. Until 1972 the O 305 city bus had been offered in a longer regional version, and the O 307, with a somewhat higher floor, replaced it. In 1973 Mercedes-Benz presented it as a separate series, visually distinct from the VOeV-I city bus by larger windscreens wrapped round the sides, the so-called StUeLB front, and by outward-swinging doors. The higher floor allowed an underfloor luggage compartment. It started with a 154 kW (210 PS) diesel, raised to 177 kW (240 PS) from 1977, with a five-speed gearbox as standard and a six-speed or three-speed automatic as options. From 1981 the O 307 A had touring seating, with up to 53 seats. The Deutsche Bundesbahn and Bundespost were the main buyers, and the O 407 replaced it in 1987.