In 1936, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Type 230, a larger version of the W21 chassis with a 2,229-cubic-centimeter inline-six-cylinder engine providing 55 horsepower—15 more than the standard powerplant. Internally designated the W143 chassis, it retained its predecessor’s four-wheel independent suspension but now rode on a 3,050-millimeter wheelbase. This pioneering design employed double transverse leaf springs in the front and swing axles with double coil springs in the rear for excellent roadholding. A full set of hydraulic-assisted brakes also came standard. As production continued, a wider range of body styles and a shorter-wheelbase version became available with this larger engine. The 230 was competitively priced for a six-cylinder car and suited the prevailing market conditions, being compact and economical yet constructed to Mercedes-Benz’s traditionally high standard.

The attractive 230 Cabriolet B on offer was first sold in July 1936 to an individual in Germany. The Mercedes-Benz would remain in its home country for many more decades and was registered to Walter Kurt Gross of Lower Saxony for over two decades, according to documents on file.

In 2003, the car entered the United States under the ownership of prominent Mercedes-Benz collector Gerhard Schnuerer. While presenting in solid condition upon arrival, it was eventually decided to send the car to the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine, California for a complete restoration. This project was completed in 2009, and it is documented by a collection of invoices and photographs. The expert crew stripped the car down to its bare components and left no stone unturned in order to return this beautiful open top Mercedes-Benz to factory condition. The condition of the car today is an excellent display of the fine work of the Classic Center; the attention to detail included referencing historical records in order to ensure correct hardware was used throughout.

Today, this 230 Cabriolet B represents a wonderful example of a pre-war Mercedes-Benz not often seen in the United States. Thanks to its fabulously well-done restoration, this car will most certainly be welcome as concours events and is equally fit for purpose on a vintage rally.