1938 MERCEDES BENZ “Grosser Mercedes” Cabriolet B (W150) 770 Kompressor

Vehicle Overview

Built as a one-off for the Persian throne heir, this open-top version of the “Grosser Mercedes” W150 proved what the Sindelfingen coachbuilder could perform.

Mercedes-Benz introduced the second generation of the Grosser Mercedes lineup at the 1938 Berlin Automobile and Motorcycle Show. Just to be sure that its booth would attract more visitors, the German carmaker also hosted Rudolph Caracciola’s record-breaking vehicle that attained 268.8 mph (432.7 kph) in January 1938. It was an outstanding success, and some visitors asked if, apart from the standard versions, the automaker could build custom bodies for them. This Cabriolet B is proof of that.

The Sindelfingen coachbuilders took the front part of the Cabriolet D but extensively reworked the rest of the vehicle. Just like its sibling, it lost the cross-bar member that supported the headlights on the previous W07 Grosser Mercedes. Now, these were mounted between the arched wheel fenders and the engine compartment. In addition, the automaker installed a secondary set of headlamps on the front bumper. From its profile, the rear-hinged doors were very long, so the occupants could easily enter the vehicle. There were no rear doors, yet the automaker installed retractable side windows for the rear-seated passengers. At the back, the wheels were covered by additional panels, while the sloped rear end covered the trunk.

Inside, apart from the instrument panel, everything was custom-made. The automaker used the most expensive materials in its bin to create a lavish interior. In addition, the canvas roof was easy to handle and could have been retracted behind the rear bench.

Under the beautiful, unique bodywork, the automaker installed the advanced front suspension fitted with unequal trapezoidal links and coil springs instead of leaf springs. At the back, a De Dion axle with independent suspension provided more comfort for the passengers.