Mercedes-Benz 170 H

A Mercedes that is not immediately recognizable as a Mercedes; the distinctive radiator grille is missing and even the famous star is not encircled.

A Mercedes that is not immediately recognizable as a Mercedes; the characteristic radiator is missing and even the famous star is not encircled. The car closely resembles the Volkswagen Beetle from the same period, designed by Ferdinand Porsche. Although Porsche was chief designer at Mercedes-Benz until the late 1920s, his involvement in the development of this Mercedes-Benz 170 H is difficult to prove. In general, streamlined design was on the rise around that time. Cars were being developed with the engine in the rear and with direct rear wheel drive, so that the front could be given a more aerodynamic shape. Mercedes-Benz now presented the H models (Heckmotor – rear engine). The first types, the 130 H and 150 H, sold poorly because of their mediocre performance, after which the larger Mercedes-Benz 170 H was released. This too did not become a success. The road holding was not perfect, the car was noisy and also more expensive than the more conventionally designed 170 V with front engine, which was also available in several versions. Only 1,500 examples of the Mercedes-Benz 170 H were built.