1953 | Mercedes-Benz 170 S Cabriolet A

Chrome, Character and Cabriolet Elegance – the 1953 Mercedes 170 S

After the Second World War, Mercedes-Benz began reconstruction as early as 1945. Four years later, the company unveiled a renewed range of vehicles. In 1949, the Swiss Automobil Revue expressed admiration for the brand’s production capacity and strict quality control, in which even every ball bearing was inspected.

The 170 S emerged as the new flagship model, technically based on the pre-war 170 V, but offering more space and power. Mercedes-Benz described it as a “synthesis of all previously known vehicle types”, as the car combined the efficiency of a mid-size saloon with the driving safety and suspension comfort of a large vehicle. This was made possible by the new front suspension featuring coil springs and double wishbones. The side-valve four-cylinder engine delivered 52 horsepower – a remarkable output for this type of unit.

The bodywork echoed pre-war designs, reminiscent of the Type 230. Particularly refined was the 170 S Cabriolet A – a luxuriously appointed two-seater with a small occasional seat. It remained exclusive: only 830 examples were built.

A brief road test in 1949 confirmed the synthesis of comfort and sportiness. On poor roads, “the near-total absorption of all irregularities” was impressive, accompanied by excellent driving safety and low fuel consumption.

The Cabriolet A shown here was acquired in 2010 by a prince in Hessen – as a bare shell and boxed components. A complete restoration, including an engine overhaul, was carried out by March 2024. Today, this exclusive model once again presents itself in as-new condition.