LOT 170

1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 Coupé Prototype Registration no. not UK registered Chassis no. 280.920.00029/51 Engine no. 180.940.200635/25

Estimate: £150,000 - £200,000

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Lot 170

1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 Coupé Prototype

Goodwood Revival: Collectors' Motor Cars and Automobilia|7 September 2024, 13:00 BST|Chichester, Goodwood

1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 Coupé Prototype
Registration no. not UK registered
Chassis no. 280.920.00029/51
Engine no. 180.940.200635/25

• Unique one-off
• Commissioned by Daimler-Benz CEO Dr Wilhelm Haspel
• An older restoration
• Fitted with a 230 engine

Essentially the prototype for the Mercedes-Benz 220 Coupés that would be produced several years later, the car offered here was originally built for Dr Wilhelm Haspel, the CEO of Daimler-Benz AG, who is credited with the German manufacturer's rapid reconstruction after WW2. Haspel died in 1952 and subsequently the Mercedes was acquired by a Lufthansa pilot, who had discovered the car in the USA and brought it back to Germany. The pilot sold the car to one Erhardt Bernot, who appears to have owned it from at least 1976 to 2002 and possibly longer (see correspondence on file). Mr Bernot conducted a vast amount of research, reaching out to Daimler-Benz many times, and carried out a full restoration, including fitting a 230 engine in place of the original, damaged unit.

The paint and bodywork have been refinished in glossy black to a better standard than would have been possible 70 years ago, and all the brightwork has been re-plated. Within the very tidy and comfortable passenger compartment all of the upholstery is in good condition, as are the carpets, floor mats and headlining, while the wood-grained window frames and dashboard have been refinished to a high standard. The dashboard contains a full array of gauges, including oil pressure, temperature, and remaining fuel, as well as a clock and a beautiful Becker radio. The boot contains the spare tyre, a jack, and tyre changing tools. Dunlop Road Speed tyres are fitted for that proper period appearance.

Saleroom notices

Please note that the chassis number has been incorrectly catalogued and should read 220/180/920.00029/51

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