The Mercedes 320 Cabriolet B was a stunning vehicle that truly captured the essence of timeless elegance. Its sleek, curved lines and graceful silhouette gave it an air of sophistication and class that was unmatched by its contemporaries.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
The 1938 Mercedes 320 Cabriolet B was a classic car that represented the pinnacle of German engineering and design of the pre-war era. It was known for its elegant styling, exceptional performance, and luxurious features, and it was a favorite among the affluent class of the time. With its smooth ride and powerful engine, this vehicle was an emblem of prestige and sophistication. In the past, it was a highly sought-after collector’s item, coveted for its timeless beauty and historical significance.
Source: YouTube
The history of the Mercedes 320 Cabriolet B was notable for its innovation, design, and high-quality workmanship. The vehicle first made its appearance at the Paris Motor Show in 1937, where it caught the attention of car enthusiasts with its smooth and sleek exterior, luxurious interior, and impressive engine performance. The 320 Cabriolet B was designed by Max Sailer, a German engineer who previously worked for BMW and Maybach. Sailer brought his expertise to the design, creating an automobile built on a strong steel frame with advanced features like hydraulic brakes, independent front suspension, and a four-speed manual transmission. But it was the car’s interior that set it apart, with lavish leather seats, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and stylish gauges and controls. The 320 Cabriolet B quickly became a favorite of celebrities, politicians, and other high-profile figures, including Winston Churchill, who purchased a customized automobile in 1945. Other notable owners included King Leopold III of Belgium and actor Clark Gable, who affectionately referred to his car as “the lil’ Benz.” Although production was halted during World War II, Mercedes-Benz resumed production of the 320 Cabriolet B in 1949 and continued until 1955, making several updates and improvements along the way. Today, the vehicle is considered a masterpiece of automotive engineering, with its timeless design and impeccable craftsmanship continuing to inspire enthusiasts worldwide. Whether displayed in a museum or cruising down the highway, the 320 Cabriolet B remains a symbol of the golden age of automotive design and a true work of art.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
The 1938 edition of the Mercedes car was a blend of elegance and luxury, truly representing the brand’s high standards. It came with various improvements in both technical aspects and interior design, setting it apart from its predecessor, the 1937 version, and making it even more attractive to potential buyers. Under the hood, it was equipped with a 3.2-liter inline-six engine, capable of producing 80 horsepower. This engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission, ensuring smooth gear changes. With a rear-wheel-drive system, the car could achieve an impressive 0 to 60 mph acceleration in approximately 20 seconds, a remarkable feat for its time. One of the significant upgrades in the 1938 model was the adoption of hydraulic brakes, replacing the mechanical brakes of the previous year’s model. This enhancement significantly improved the car’s braking performance, making it much safer to drive. Additionally, the automobile’s suspension system was refined, leading to improved handling and ride comfort. The interior of the 1938 version was both spacious and luxurious. The vehicle had four seats, with the front seats being adjustable and highly comfortable. The interior was adorned with high-quality materials such as leather and wood, which gave it a sophisticated and elegant look. The dashboard had a classic design and featured an analog speedometer and tachometer, along with various other gauges that provided the driver with critical information about the car’s performance. One significant difference in the interior of the 1938 version was the inclusion of a heater, which was not present in the previous year’s model. This improvement made the car much more comfortable to drive during the cold winter months.
Source: Bonhams
During World War II, the 1938 edition was a highly sought-after vehicle by German officers, who admired its luxurious features and exceptional performance. As a result, many of these automobiles were confiscated and used by the Nazi regime, making them a rare find today.
Contact us if you have this or another classic car to sell.
| Mon - Fri Saturday Sunday |
9am - 6pm 9am - 3pm Closed |