1934 Mercedes-Benz 130 H

- An exceedingly rare example of a rear-engined Mercedes-Benz
- One of a small number thought to remain
- Built in the 1934 launch year
- Three-speed manual with semi-automatic overdrive
- Offered without any registration document

Please kindly note that this car will be available for viewing by prior appointment in DORTMUND(GERMANY): please contact [email protected] for booking.

The rapid pace of technological development and art deco styling in the early 1930s pushed automakers down the path of streamlining, with the concept of moving the engine to the rear seen as ideal for reducing frontal area, improving passenger space, and increasing traction in winter conditions. Ferdinand Porsche did this most famously with his KdF Wagen, but the likes of Tatra and even Mercedes-Benz were working on the concept. The latter had been developing rear-engined prototypes since the start of the decade, and came to the 1934 Berlin Motor Show with the production-ready 130 H. The suffix stood for Heckmotor, describing the 1308cc side-valve four mounted at the rear. The front was smooth and clean, with a three-speed transmission boasting an advanced semi-automatic overdrive. Suspension was by transverse leaf at the front and a swing-arm design with coil springs at the back, which when coupled with a rearward weight bias gave awkward handling characteristics. Despite low sales volumes for the 130 H and updated V, production carried on until the outbreak of war in 1939. Despite this, history would show the concept was sound, with Volkswagen perfecting the idea to great success with its Beetle.

This 130 H comes with a few invoices and handwritten notes partially documenting its restoration, which took place around 2015–2017. The accompanying documentation includes an original spare parts list booklet, an owner's manual, and a sales brochure for the 130 and 170 models.

The car has been professionally maintained in the owner's private workshop. However, while it has benefited from regular care, it has been kept on static display in recent years. As such, it will require recommissioning before being returned to road use.