Mercedes-Benz 170V (W136)
Year of manufacture: 1938
Power: 38 hp
Displacement: 1,697 cm3
Number of cylinders/valves: 4/2
Weight: 1,160 kg
Condition: restored
Catalog number: 225
The Mercedes-Benz 170 V was first introduced on February 15, 1936, at the Berlin Motor Show. This was the W136 model, which almost immediately became a benchmark for a modern European car in the late pre-war period. Although it was the smallest car from Daimler-Benz A.G., its 1.7-liter engine and relatively spacious interior for the time placed it among the “better” mid-range cars. By 1942, it was the best-selling model, with over 75,000 units sold. Its direct predecessor was the Mercedes-Benz 170 type W15, produced from 1931 to 1935. That model had an engine of the same displacement, even a six-cylinder, but with 6 hp less power.
The 170 V was produced in two- and four-door sedans, cabriolets, two-seat roadsters, as well as adapted utility versions such as ambulances and vehicles for police, mountain rescue, and the military. For military purposes, Mercedes-Benz built over 19,000 units with the so-called “Kübelwagen” body.
The car’s body was very advanced and fully made of metal. Unlike previous practice, no wooden frames covered with sheet metal were used. The engine was front-mounted, and power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a driveshaft. The engine was an inline four-cylinder with side valve (SV) design, displacing 1,697 cm³, with a bore of 73.5 mm and stroke of 100 mm. It was equipped with a Solex carburetor. During and after the war, some cars were converted to run on wood gas generators, which reduced engine performance and caused various operational issues.
The 170 V was continuously improved over time. From May 1949, a diesel engine with 38 hp was also introduced. The car reached a top speed of 116 km/h. With standard fuel, the engine produced 28 kW at 3,400 rpm. A four-speed gearbox transmitted power to the rear axle equipped with a differential. The wheelbase was 2,850 mm, and the weight was 1,120 kg. Popular optional accessories included practical fog lamps, which were not commonly fitted at the time.
The car in our collection is a classic four-door, four-seat limousine that has been fully restored and is in running condition.
