Beginning in 1946, Mercedes-Benz adopted a single-model policy out of necessity, as the pre-war 170 V was the only model for which usable tooling had survived World War II. Thus, it was upon the backbone of this hardy and versatile chassis that Mercedes-Benz rebuilt itself and its sales. The standard model was a four-door sedan, but as the post-war years went on, numerous other versions were developed, including everything from attractive cabriolets to open-top parade vehicles and trucks.

One of the scarcest 170 variants was the 170 Da (diesel) OTP, also known as the Police Special, which was a four-door open tourer with a folding windshield. This model, as its name suggests, was intended directly for police agencies and other official organizations, including the newly formed Bundegrenzschutz (German federal border patrol). It was the first 170 model to have an outside trunk lid, a feature that was immediately seen as so useful that it was adopted for the civilian market as well. The majority of these cars were painted Police Green, with blue adopted on later OTPs.

The car shown here is the 452nd of 531 Police Specials built between 1948 and 1951, and it is believed to have been used by a U.S. serviceman to tour Europe, after which it was exported to the United States.

The 170 Da has remained with its present owner, a well-known and highly regarded East Coast enthusiast, for some 30 years, and although it has been seldom shown, it has been carefully preserved and maintained. He describes it as “a good running car; not over-restored, but just an original car that has been made to run and drive well.” Accordingly, it still has much of its original finishes, including the factory-applied top, which has not been lowered in years, and the side curtains, and it has been driven about 42,740 kilometers, which is probably its actual mileage. The paint shows the wear of age but still has some shine and is charmingly patinated, as is the interior. The car is fitted with a heater, clock, and driver’s side spotlight with mirror.

As a Mercedes-Benz customer in good standing, the owner has been able to purchase manuals for the car, which will accompany it and be given to the new owner, along with the side curtains and some additional documentation, including the serviceman’s European maps and a jerry can military fuel can.

As an interesting, unusual, and very enjoyable post-war model from the “Star and Laurel,” this very original Police Special would be a unique piece for any collection.