Mercedes’ bread-and-butter car in the 1930s was the 170, which was introduced in 1931. As a six-cylinder model, it was compact yet advanced. The wheelbase was a scant 2,600 millimetres, but, on this modest chassis, the manufacturers fitted a 1.7-litre six and fully independent suspension. The latter utilised twin transverse leaf springs at the front and swing axles at the rear. Nearly 14,000 were built through 1936.

This smart looking saloon was delivered through the Daimler-Benz Dresden branch in October 1935 to Herr Karl Harlüng, of Pirna, Germany, as per a copy of the factory data card. Included is also the original owner’s manual, as well as Harlüng’s original registration documents. It has since been the recipient of a cosmetic restoration, where it was finished in maroon with black wings; the paint shows a few blisters. The roof has a black vinyl insert that is outlined in aluminium mouldings. The brightwork appears original, with some having been buffed out to good effect. The body is by Mercedes-Benz Karosserie at Sindelfingen and carries its emblem, as well as trafficators, which are mounted to the front door posts. The headlamp bar has a medallion for ÖAMTC, an Austrian motor club that was founded in 1896 and is apparently equivalent to the Automobile Association.

The interior has tan leather seats and matching door panels in vinyl. They show some careful use but no wear. The beige carpets exhibit a little bit of soil, whilst the matching headliner is unblemished. There is a boot at the rear, with a spare tyre mounted behind it, and it comes with an additional bonus of a matching covered box trailer. This, however, will need some further touches to be operational, as it presently lacks lights, and there is no hitch on the car. The engine compartment is nicely detailed, although it appears that the engine itself has not been dismantled for any reason. This car is a very nice example of the early model 170, and it is ideally suited for rally or tour, with the latter made entirely practical by the trailer.