1938 Mercedes-Benz 170VS

History

The Mercedes-Benz 170V, internal code W136, was successor to the W15 six-cylinder 170 model. The 170V was more powerful and slightly larger than its predecessor, but it came with only four-cylinders. It was introduced in 1936 and wore more streamlined bodies than the 170 and had a lower price. The 'V' represented vorn, German for front, distinguishing it from the rear-engine 170 H model, with the 'H' standing for heck, or rear.

The 170 V also had a new backbone chassis which offered greater torsional rigidity. The new side-valve 4-cylinder engine displaced 1697cc and offered nearly 40 horsepower, thanks (in-part) to a compression ratio of 6.0:1. Top speed was achieved at around 70 miles per hour. The 170V had a fully independent suspension all around. Front suspension was by upper and lower parallel transverse leaf springs while the rear suspension utilized swing axles and coil springs. The 170 V was equipped with a synchronized four-speed manual transmission and 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

Production of the 170 V began in 1935 and it made its formal debut at the Berlin Motor Show of February of 1936. Around 70,000 examples were produced from 1935 to 1942.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2017