"The Mercedes-Benz W136 was one of a range of inline four-cylinder cars from the mid-1930s into the 1950s. The model 170 V made its public debut as successor to the W15 Type 170 in February 1936 and between 1936 and 1939 it was Mercedes-Benz top selling model. During the war the plant suffered very severe bomb damage but the manufacturer nevertheless emerged from the trauma with a significant competitive advantage over many of its pre-war competitors. Enough of the W136's tooling survived the bombing during World War II for it to serve as the foundation upon which the company could rebuild. By 1947 the model 170 V had resumed its place as Mercedes-Benz top-seller, a position it held until 1953.
This fantastic example spent thirty-seven years of its life in the ownership of a well-known Owners’ Club member. During his tenure, the extensive file of invoices and receipts for works completed to this scarce Mercedes totalled nearly £19,000. Most of this work was undertaken by marque specialist, John Haynes and it certainly shows. This well restored car presents in gleaming Jet Black paintwork with a grey cloth upholstery and grey carpets. The brightwork is good and the semaphores work, as does the cars self-lubricating system. The 1700cc side valve engine fired into life on first request and runs as smoothly as a car a fraction of its age. The column change four speed gearbox has synchromesh on each gear and changes are made with ease. Offered to auction with a V5c registration document and at a fraction of the restoration costs, this Mercedes would make a tremendous addition to any collector or enthusiast."