Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136
The Mercedes-Benz 170 S holds a special place in automotive history as the car that marked Mercedes-Benz's return to civilian automobile production after World War II. When the Sindelfingen factory resumed car production in 1946, it was the prewar 170 V that first rolled off the lines — because it was the only model for which tooling had survived the Allied bombing. The 170 S, introduced in 1949, was the refined, upmarket version that signaled Mercedes-Benz's intent to once again build premium automobiles.
The 'S' stood for 'Super' (or 'Sonder' — special), and the 170 S delivered on that promise with improved trim, better upholstery, more chrome, and a more powerful version of the 1.8-liter side-valve four-cylinder engine producing 52 hp. This was hardly a powerful car, but in the context of a shattered postwar Germany where any car was a luxury, the 170 S represented aspirational motoring.
The 170 S was available as a sedan, cabriolet A (two-seat), and cabriolet B (four-seat). The cabriolet versions are particularly prized today for their elegant lines and open-air motoring character. The bodywork was largely handcrafted, with coachbuilding techniques that harked back to the prewar era.
Despite its modest specifications, the 170 S was an important car. It demonstrated that Mercedes-Benz still knew how to build quality automobiles, maintaining the brand's prewar reputation for engineering excellence even under the most challenging circumstances. The independent suspension at all four corners — unusual for the era — provided a comfortable ride, and the build quality was exceptional given the postwar shortages of materials.
The 170 S also served as a platform for the 170 Diesel (170 D), which was one of the world's first diesel-powered passenger cars and established Mercedes-Benz's long association with diesel technology.
Production continued until 1955, when the 170 S was replaced by the more modern 180/190 'Ponton' series. By then, it had served its purpose admirably — keeping Mercedes-Benz alive during the most difficult period in the company's history and laying the foundation for the economic miracle cars that would follow.
Survivors are relatively rare and parts availability varies. Body and chassis rust is the primary concern — the body-on-frame construction means both must be inspected carefully. The side-valve engine is simple and robust but parts are scarce. Electrical system is basic 6-volt — many have been converted to 12-volt. Cabriolet versions command significantly higher prices than sedans. Original upholstery and chrome are highly valued. The column-shift mechanism can be worn. A specialist marque inspection is essential. Documentation and provenance are important for valuation.
Approximately 38,262 units of the 170 S produced (1949-1955), including sedan and cabriolet variants. The basic 170 V (non-S) was produced from 1946-1953. The 170 S was joined by the 170 DS (diesel) variant. Cabriolet versions (A and B) were produced in much smaller numbers and are significantly more valuable today. The 170 platform also spawned the 170 SB and 170 S-D variants.