German automotive giants Daimler and Benz were well respected for the quality and performance of their automobiles, and things only improved when the two firms joined forces in 1926. The new marque—Mercedes-Benz—would be represented by a new logo—the Three-Pointed Star—while production was shared between Daimler’s Stuttgart facility and Benz’s Mannheim works 150 kilometres to the north.

In the years that followed the union, Mercedes-Benz produced a number of sporting models, but none was as significant as the 15/75 HP 370—a car that stood tall among its peers for its elegant design and impressive performance. Powered by a 3,689-cc inline six-cylinder engine fed by twin carburettors, the 370 laid the groundwork for some of the German manufacturer’s most celebrated models, including the world-beating 540.

The 370 S utilised the shortest wheelbase of its stablemates, further contributing to the sporting credentials established by its 75 horsepower engine and 75 mph top speed. Very much a car to be driven rather than driven in, it appealed to well-heeled enthusiast buyers both in its native Germany and abroad.

This particular example, chassis 87129, is believed to have been delivered to one Herr Frederic Boelech of Berlin, Germany on 28 November 1933. While little is known of the car’s early years, in June 1955 the car was imported to the United Kingdom, having been brought back to the country by a serving member of the Royal Air Force. On 9 December 1957 the Mercedes-Benz was sold to Dorothy Stewart, and in 1958 it passed into the care of the consigning owner’s father, who purchased the car from a dealer for £250. He part-exchanged his Hillman Minx, walking away with both the Mercedes-Benz and £125 in his back pocket. A growing family eventually necessitated a more practical car, and in 1960 the 370 S was taken off the road and placed into long-term storage. Having remained in storage for the past 63 years, it now requires complete renovation.

Today, this remarkable example of Mercedes-Benz’s seminal sports car presents in original and unrestored condition, complete with many notable period features including its twin rear-mounted spare wheels. A hugely tempting proposition either as the basis for a complete concours-standard restoration, or to compete in the preservation classes at those same leading events.