38 hp, 1,697 cc inline L-head four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

Wheelbase: 2,845 mm Successor to the W15 six-cylinder 170 model, the 170 V, internal code W136, was slightly larger than its predecessor and more powerful, but it came with only four cylinders.

Introduced in 1936, it had a more streamlined body than the 170 and was sold at a lower price.

The “V” signified vorn, German for front, distinguishing it from the rear-engine 170 H model, with the “H” standing for heck, or rear.

The 170 V fell naturally to taxi work, which is a role that Mercedes continues in Germany to this day.

This 170 V, delivered in August 1939 through the Daimler-Benz Königsberg branch, has the unusual cabriolet saloon body.

It is essentially a four-door with a fold-back black fabric roof that gives open air to all passengers when opened.

The side rails and windows, however, remain in place, providing shelter from t...