LOT 14
1951 Mercedes-Benz Type 170Da Open Tourer Chassis no. 136.174.13127/51 Engine no. 636.930.8503410
Sold for US$34,720 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 14
1951 Mercedes-Benz Type 170Da Open Tourer
1951 Mercedes-Benz Type 170Da Open Tourer
Chassis no. 136.174.13127/51
Engine no. 636.930.8503410
Chassis no. 136.174.13127/51
Engine no. 636.930.8503410
1,767cc Inline 4-Cylinder Diesel Engine
Mechanical Fuel Injection
40hp at 3,200rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Front Suspension, Rear Swing Axle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
*A pioneering early diesel passenger car
*Rare and seldom seen in the U.S.
*Older high-quality restoration, few miles since
*Exceptionally well-preserved condition
*Great candidate for the Show Circuit
THE MERCEDES-BENZ W136
The Mercedes-Benz W136 series, a line of four-cylinder passenger cars, served as the brand's flagship model from the mid-1930s to the 1950s. Debuting in February 1936 as the 170 V (the "V" designation denoted "Vorn," or front, distinguishing it from the rear-engine 170 H), it succeeded the W15 Type 170 and became Mercedes' best-selling model from 1936 to 1939, with over 75,000 units manufactured by 1942. Surviving Allied bombing during World War II, its tooling facilitated post-war reconstruction. Resuming production in 1947, the 170 V regained its top-seller status until 1953. Most models were four-door "Limousines," although diverse body types were offered, including the "Cabrio-Limousine" with a foldaway canvas roof, while more utilitarian taxi variants featured large rear luggage racks. The range also included two-door "Cabriolet A" and "Cabriolet B" models. Despite war disruptions, Mercedes-Benz production recommenced in 1946, initially focusing on light trucks and ambulances before passenger car production resumed in 1947. The 170 V saw a resurgence in 1949, including a diesel variant dubbed the Mercedes-Benz 170 D, renowned for its exceptional fuel economy.
THE CAR OFFERED
This rare and superb 170Da has undergone a professional restoration, reportedly leaving no expense spared and having covered minimal mileage since completion. While it has made occasional appearances at local Concours events, the seller reports it has not been showcased recently, presenting an excellent opportunity for inclusion in the show circuit. Its rarity and infrequency on American soil make it a truly exceptional and fascinating find, particularly with its diesel engine. It is finished in a two-tone cream and brown exterior over a black interior, a particularly appealing livery for this body style. These early diesel automobiles represent a groundbreaking achievement in automotive history and would be a prized addition to any esteemed collection, particularly one focusing on pioneering "alternative fuel" vehicles. This 170 comes with all four window inserts for all-weather touring, while the fold down windscreen provides wind-in-your-face excitement when the sun is shining. The car will also be accompanied by a Merdedes service manual, some restoration photos as well as some spare engine parts. Surely a wonderful opportunity to acquire a rarely seen early diesel Mercedes in comprehensively restored form.
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