In 1937, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Type 230 “N,” internally designated W143.

As the successor to the previous Type 230 (W21), it used its predecessor’s chassis with four-wheel independent suspension and a 2,700-millimetre wheelbase.

Rather oddly, the marque also produced a longer-wheelbase version of the same powertrain family, and as such, these smaller and more sporting 230-class chassis were retroactively designated “N,” or “normal.” Two different chassis designs were employed, with long-wheelbase tourers and limousines using a box-section frame while the short-chassis cars employed an oval-tube backbone.

As a pioneer in fully independent suspension for passenger cars, the 230 N employed double transverse leaf springs in the front and swing axles with double coil springs in the rear.

A full set of hydraulic-assisted brakes also came standard.

The 230 was competitively priced for a six-cylinder car and suited the prevailing market conditions, being compact and economical yet ...