1938 MERCEDES BENZ 170 VK 1.7 4MT (38 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The 170 VK was one version for the 170 V, a car that was offered in many bodywork versions, from an off-road roadster to a delivery van.

And it was designed to be used as a military vehicle.

In February 1936, the International Motor and Motorcycle Show in Berlin was dominated by the theme 50 Years of Automotive Engineering”. As was to be expected, Daimler-Benz was present at the historic anniversary show with a host of exhibits in the hall of fame. Not only that, with the 170 V, 170 H, and 260 D, it also unveiled three new passenger car models. The “V” in the model designation indicated that the engine was at the front. Based on the new V-series, the German car-maker built other types of vehicles, with a military destination, and the VK was one of the most successful.

The backbone of the vehicle was the X-shaped oval tubular frame design, which was similar to the H-versions (air-cooled rear-engines) and the Kaffer (Beetle). It was tough enough to cope as a Kubbelwagen (vehicles for rough terrain).

The VK version featured flat surfaces and diagonally cut doors. It was a vehicle where the design followed functions. It was fit with mounting points for machine-guns, short overhangs, and off-road tires. Its higher ground clearance made it ideal for military purposes. One of its main advantages was the suspension system, with transverse springs for the front wheels and a swing axle in the rear. The worm and lever steering mechanism made it very reliable under stressful conditions. It was built to carry four, fully equipped soldiers. The long final drive ratio of 4:125 made it good in climbing and difficult terrain but limited its top speed. The VK was produced in 19075 units.