Journey Through Time
This briefing document explores the history of a 1937 Mercedes 170 V Cabriolet, focusing on its origins, its significance as a model, and its remarkable journey through time culminating in a modern-day restoration.
From War Trophy to Restoration Project:
The story begins during World War II, where a German SS officer possessed this 1937 Mercedes 170 V Cabriolet. A G.I. brought the car to the United States as a war trophy. Years and unfortunate accidents left the car requiring a complete restoration.
The 170 V: A Success Story:
The Mercedes-Benz 170 V (W 136), launched in 1936, was a landmark car for the brand. Fifty years after the invention of the automobile, the 170 V, with its advanced engineering and stylish design, became a bestseller.
Technical Prowess:
The car featured a 38 hp engine with vertical valves and an updraught carburettor. Its innovative "floating assembly" engine mounting on rubber bearings ensured a smooth and quiet ride. As the trade journal “Motor und Sport” remarked, the engine was so quiet "that you would never guess there was a four-cylinder engine under the bonnet."
Critical Acclaim:
The 170 V received rave reviews in the motoring press:
Allgemeine Automobil-Zeitung (AAZ): "The most salient feature of this car is its suppleness, its wonderfully smooth adaptation to the driver’s every desire, no matter how subtle. [...] It is anything but a coincidence that this car has been able to conquer a considerable share of the German market within a short period of time.”
Motor und Sport: "Its value lies in the fact that this car, with all its characteristics assessed, is probably the most balanced design to be found in light car construction internationally.”
Automobil-Revue (Swiss): "The Mercedes-Benz Model 170 V has long since outgrown the motoring equivalent of the adolescent stage. But is it not a vehicle that, in terms of its performance, modesty, economy, safety, its durability and – last but not least – its beauty, can still stand comparison with the latest chrome-plated creations of car fashion?”
A Challenging Restoration:
In the 1990s, a Californian physician embarked on the challenging task of restoring the Cabriolet to its former glory. The scarcity of existing models made it difficult to source parts and understand the original assembly. Parts were sourced globally, with many needing to be custom-made.
Nearing Completion:
The restoration is now nearing completion. The car has been painted a vibrant red, the leather upholstery is being installed, and the anticipation builds for the installation of the new convertible top, fenders, and hood.
This 1937 Mercedes 170 V Cabriolet is more than just a car; it's a testament to automotive history, enduring design, and the dedication of those who bring these vintage vehicles back to life.