1952 Mercedes-Benz 170 Va Station Wagon

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£40,320 GBP | Sold

Mercedes Collection

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51 bhp, 1,767 cc inline four-cylinder engine, four-speed floor shift manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension, and drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,845 mm

After World War Two, Mercedes-Benz held a competitive advantage in comparison to other German automotive manufacturers. Most of the tooling for the 170 V model range was intact and body steel was readily available, unlike BMW and Ford of Germany, whose steel suppliers were located in what was, at that time, Eastern Germany.

By the early 1950s, the W136 platform was dated but still popularly regarded as an entry-level passenger car, and it was often used as a service vehicle platform. For the 1950 model year, a higher displacement engine was fitted, boosting horsepower from 38 horsepower to 52 horsepower. Other upgrades included telescopic shock absorbers, stronger brakes, and the widening of the passenger compartment by 50 millimetres. A diesel-powered variant was also available at this time. To differentiate between these two variants, they were designated 170 Va for the gasoline model and 170 Da for the diesel.

This particular example of the 170 Va Station Wagon displays as an older cosmetic restoration. Its two-tone body is finished in grey and green, and it presents well, with no oblivious flaws. The exterior brightwork appears to have been restored some time ago and shows light pitting and polishing marks. The steel wheels are painted the body colour, with polished chrome centre caps, and they are shod with appropriate blackwall tyres. Additional features include exterior trafficators mounted on the cowl and exterior rearview mirrors fitted on both sides.

Interior trimmings include dark green vinyl seats and black vinyl floor mats, with an original-looking rubber mat on the transmission tunnel, which shows some cracking. The cargo area is painted flat black with attractive blonde wood slats lining the interior walls, and it also has black vinyl matting covering the floor. The underside has been refinished in flat black and shows minor wear from use. As an unusual and rare example, this attractive Station Wagon may be used for a variety of purposes, from camping to advertising, or to fill the utility niche of a larger collection.