32 hp, 1,692 cc inline L-head six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

Wheelbase: 2,600 mm As the brainchild of Technical Director Hans Nibel, the Mercedes-Benz 170 was a concession to the economic distress of the early 1930s.

Intended to complement the large, luxurious cars in the Mercedes range, it was not quite four metres long and weighed just 750 kilograms.

Although mostly conventional in design, it broke new ground as the first Mercedes with four-wheel independent suspension and two transverse leaf springs in the front and swing axles at the rear.

Hydraulic brakes were fitted on all four wheels.

Power came from a compact, 1,692-cubic centimetre side-valve six.

The four-speed gearbox had an overdrive ratio for top gear.

Fuel consumption of 26 mpg (Imperial) was balanced nicely by a top speed of 55 mph.

Striking in a burgundy shade of red with black wings, this 170 Cabriolet C was delivered thro...