• 1 of only 2 RHD examples believed to be remaining
• Subject to circa £140,000 restoration
• Beautifully trimmed interior
• £23,000 engine rebuild
The Background
Quite a few Mercedes-Benz models have carried the 230 name over the generations, and the genesis of it is the car you’re looking at here: the W143 of 1937.
Built to replace the popular Typ 200, it boasted all-round independent suspension beneath a longer and more generously proportioned body than its predecessor.
A 2.2-litre straight-six was mated to a 4-speed manual ’box, and the car could be bought as a 2- or 4-door saloon, as well as a variety of cabriolet and roadster variants.
Built until 1941, the design of the 230 is rakish and stylish, and oft considered to be one of the more elegant European pre-war designs. And with its combination of striking looks, superlative comfort and sure-footed roadholding, it’s a design that has truly transcended the ages.
What’s particularly notable about this car is that it’s one of only two such models remaining; indeed, only nine of these were ever built in right-hand-drive, so this is a rare beast.
It’s also interesting to note that it’s equipped with what the seller refers to as ‘the bigger engine’; check the documentation and you’ll see that it boasts a displacement of 2,687cc.
And not only is it rare, it’s also in incredible condition throughout. The current owner has spent in the region of £140,000 on a thorough restoration, meaning that this is undoubtedly one of the freshest and most complete W143s you’re likely to find. The engine rebuild alone cost over £23,000.
This is a 1930s Mercedes-Benz that’s as pleasing to drive as it is to look at. It’s clearly lived a life too – the nose is liberally sprinkled with badges from owners clubs and events, and the owner has evidence to share of when the 230 won ‘Best Pre-War Car’ at the Summer Drive-In at the Royal Automobile Club in 2003, its name etched into a huge trophy in glass and bronze.
The owner has the original 1937 manuals, which is not a thing you come across very often these days, along with an old-style V5 from the 1990s showing that this isn’t a car that’s changed hands too often.
They have a lot of anecdotal evidence to offer regarding the restoration, and it’s reassuring to find an itemised invoice in the file from 2019, showing the full details of the engine rebuild: carried out by Riverside Performance Engineering, the whole thing was heated and stripped; the crank was reground and polished, new valve springs fabricated, cylinders honed and fitted with bespoke pistons, distributor housing repaired in magnesium, and much more besides.
We’re informed that the car also has a new cylinder head, and that part alone was more than £3000.
The interior retrim has been beautifully carried out. The seats are in outstanding condition, with proper support and no sagging, and the leather is superb and beautifully stitched.
The doorcards have been trimmed with equal care, and the carpets and headlining are similarly excellent. The wood trim on the dash, door tops and window surrounds is all solid, complete and untarnished, with the ashtrays and cubbyholes opening and closing correctly.
The steering wheel and gear knob show no signs of undue wear, and the correct dials are present and functional. The windows wind up and down as they should, and it’s good to know that the tilt-open windscreen unscrews, opens and re-secures correctly with the three twist releases.
Inside the boot it’s been tastefully recarpeted to match the cabin, with the jack and tools mounted on the bulkhead.
Pre-war designs of this ilk were brutal and impressive, and the W143 cuts a magnificent profile today with its generous running boards, huge wings and lashings of chrome.
The bodywork is in extremely good order throughout; aside from a very small area of surface corrosion at the very bottom of the nose beneath the grille, we didn’t find any notable ageing or deterioration.
The restoration has evidently been carried out to a high standard, with every body panel presenting well and sitting straight and true. The paint is lovely and supremely reflective, and all of the correct chrome trim is in place – complete with assorted badges from clubs and events over the years.
The wheels wear correct hubcaps along with quality whitewall tyres, with a spare mounted either side. All of the window glass and light lenses are in good condition. Overall, a wonderfully presented example that exudes class and quality throughout.
A huge amount of money has been spent on its mechanical elements to bring it to the condition that it is found in today.
We’ve already discussed the engine rebuild, and it’s worth noting that this motor was completely seized when the works began; today it’s a smooth and willing unit that starts easily, revs freely, idles evenly, and pulls with all the keenness you’d hope for.
The only minor point to note here is that it currently suffers from overheating – but given the amount of effort and expenditure that’s been poured into the drivetrain, this is a small element within a far bigger picture.
The transmission shifts sweetly, and a similar level of care and attention has been applied throughout the chassis; there are no issues to report with the steering, brakes or suspension, it’s a lovely thing to drive.
Even among the rarefied sphere of pre-war cars, this 230 is an extremely rare find. One of only two surviving examples, it’s a proper unicorn for the serious collector. And this car doesn’t just represent an unusual model on paper, it’s also a thoroughly delightful reality.
Having been restored to incredible standards with a no-expense-spared approach, it has a very attractive body, a divine interior, correctly refreshed mechanicals – it’s the complete package.
A fascinating chapter of Mercedes-Benz history, far more sprightly than its eighty-four years might suggest, and with a long and illustrious future surely lying ahead.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1937 Mercedes-Benz 230 (W143)
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