78 bhp, 3,208 cc inline-six cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, front independent suspension with transverse leaf springs and rear swing axle suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 3,300 mm
The 320 was derived from Mercedes-Benz’s 290 platform and designed to serve a large role in the Mercedes-Benz line-up. Intended to enter the marketplace in between the large- and medium-sized offerings, the 320 was offered with either a short- or long-wheelbase chassis. The shorter wheelbase only offered three different variations on the chassis, whilst the long wheelbase offered 10 different body styles. Customers preferred having more choices with the longer wheelbase, and as a result, that particular chassis sold quite well.
The “D” designation on this 1938 Mercedes-Benz 320 Cabriolet refers to its body style as a four-door convertible saloon that is similar to its four-door saloon cousin but without the B-pillar between the doors. Currently finished in a beautiful two-tone paint scheme of dark blue and cream over a black leather interior and black soft top, the car presents well and shows only minor traces of patina. On this example, the interior leather wears no blemishes from use after its restoration. A recent mechanical assessment showed that the engine has not seen use for an extended period of time and that it is not original to this chassis.
Perhaps the most attractive feature on this particular example is its removable windshield, which is vee’d and raked at a rather steep angle. Other interesting features include a driver’s side spotlight and dual side-mounted spare tyres with rearview mirrors, which are mounted on both sides of the body. These features help to give it an aggressive yet purposeful appearance, and they greatly add to the overall impression of this individual 320 Cabriolet D.
Considering these special features and its colour combination, this particular 320 Cabriolet D stands out amongst the rest. As it is both aggressive and rakish, it would be difficult to find another example with identical features and such outstanding eye appeal.