Highlights

Desirable short-wheelbase W18 chassis (2,880 mm) with bodywork evocative of the celebrated 540 K Roadsters
Comprehensively restored in 2014, with bodywork stripped back to bare wood framework
Located in Bovenden, Germany

The Appeal

The Mercedes-Benz 290 was introduced at the 1933 Berlin Motor Show as part of Daimler-Benz's ambitious modernization of its model range, and the short-wheelbase Spezial Roadster is among the most coveted variants. With its 2,880 mm W18 chassis, elegant two-seater proportions and coachwork that draws unmistakable parallels with the legendary 540 K Roadsters, it occupies a distinguished position in the pre-war Mercedes-Benz hierarchy, offering slightly larger and more luxurious bodywork than the comparable W21 series.

This particular example, chassis number 113229, benefits from a thorough restoration completed in 2014 under prior ownership. The bodywork was taken back to its bare wood framework before being rebuilt and finished in a striking shade of red, while the interior, brightwork and running gear were all comprehensively attended to. With German historic vehicle registration in place and the kind of presence that would be welcomed at concours d'élégance, touring rallies and classic events worldwide, this 290 Spezial Roadster represents a rare opportunity to acquire a genuinely striking piece of 1930s Mercedes-Benz heritage.

History and Paperwork

First registered in July 1935
Restored under prior ownership, with the restoration completed in 2014
German Fahrzeugbrief present
EU taxes paid
Approved for German historic vehicle registration (H-Kennzeichen)
Professional valuation reports from 2016 and 2021 available
Around 1,001 km indicated on the odometer

The Condition

The vendor states the car remains in very good condition following its restoration
Bodywork finished in red over the rebuilt bare wood framework
Interior reupholstered in beige/tan leather
Opal instrument cluster fitted with VDO gauges
Wire wheels with brightly finished spokes, rims and color-matched hubcaps
Bright trim restored throughout, including bumpers, grille, headlights, center-mounted fog light and dual driving lights beside the windscreen
Cream-colored fabric soft top, fully retractable
Two-piece custom-made matching luggage set included

The 1935 Mercedes-Benz Typ 290 Spezial-Roadster is reported by the vendor to remain in very good condition following restoration. It features red bodywork over a rebuilt bare wood framework, a beige/tan leather interior, and an opal instrument cluster with VDO gauges. Brightly finished wire wheels, restored chrome trim and lighting, including a center fog light and dual driving lights, complement its elegant styling. The car also has a fully retractable cream fabric soft top and comes with a bespoke two-piece matching luggage set.

The Mechanics

2,847cc inline six-cylinder engine (M18), producing 68 HP
3-speed manual gearbox with vacuum-operated overdrive
Rear-wheel drive
Independent front suspension combining a transverse leaf spring with an upper arm and coil spring
Rear swing axle with twin coil springs per side and a compensating spring behind the differential

The 1935 Mercedes-Benz Typ 290 Spezial-Roadster is powered by a 2,847cc M18 inline-six engine producing 68 HP, paired with a three-speed manual gearbox featuring vacuum-operated overdrive and rear-wheel drive. Its suspension combines independent front suspension with a transverse leaf spring, upper arm and coil spring, while the rear features swing axles, twin coil springs on each side and a compensating spring behind the differential, delivering period-appropriate engineering and ride comfort.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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