A new Mercedes-Benz series, factory code W18, began production in 1933. Now more commonly known as the 290, it heralded advanced engineering features, including hydraulic brakes, transverse leaf-spring and coil-spring front suspension, a floating rear axle with coil springs, and a 60-horsepower 2,867-cubic-centimeter flathead six-cylinder engine.

In typical fashion of the period, numerous attractive body styles were offered in virtually every imaginable configuration, including no fewer than four different cabriolets built on the shorter 2,870-millimeter-wheelbase and dubbed A, B, C, and D, each with a different seating configuration. The Cabriolet A sat some 190 millimeters lower than other cabriolets and featured a two-passenger interior and was both the sportiest-looking variant and the most expensive.

This elegantly streamlined W18 Cabriolet A by Sindelfingen was reportedly delivered new to Berlin in November 1934. Arguably one of the most well-proportioned and sporting designs of the time, it was certainly destined for an astute connoisseur who could appreciate its illusion of width and length, created by the low profile of the body and greatly enhanced by the presence of dual rear-mounted spare wheels. Later part of a prominent Portuguese Mercedes-Benz collection, it was acquired from that stable by the present owner in the fall of 2013 and has since remained on display in his own distinguished collection.

Restored some years ago, the car is finished in elegant subtly metallic silver and black, over red leather with VDO gauges trimmed in chrome and mounted into a red leather dashboard. It rides on silver-painted wire wheels and is pleasingly accessorized with dual trafficators, as well as a radio antenna and driver-side spotlight. Evidence of gentle use since restoration presents with some patina to the gloss black-finished chassis and engine bay, and some minor blistering visible to the paintwork. Not driven widely in recent years, the car would be ideal for further mechanical and cosmetic freshening for participation in any number of concours and driving events on both sides of the Atlantic.

Likely one of the most beautiful surviving 290s, this is a fine example of a vintage Mercedes-Benz cabriolet of the Classic Era.