1933 MERCEDES BENZ Typ 380 (W22) 380

Vehicle Overview

The 380 model was unveiled at the 1933 International Motor and Motorcycle Show in Berlin. The 380 served as the successor to the legendary six-cylinder supercharged “SS” and “SSK” models.

The 380 model (W 22) was a typical product of changing times. These changing times arrived at Daimler-Benz in the early 1930s and were ushered in above all by technical director Dr. Hans Nibel and his chief designer, Max Wagner. It was a transition model, which tried to get rid of the rigid axles and introduce the new swing-axle in the back and front independent suspension with coil springs.

On the outside, the 380 kept the distinctive pointed radiator grille. At the beginning of the 20th century, that shape was a common stylistic feature to more car-makers. In the 1920s, it started to fade away from the market, but it continued to be installed on the large supercharged models from Mercedes-Benz.

The 380 was offered as a convertible, coupe, four-door sedan, and chassis with engine and steering for further coach-builders. Some customers chose the latter version not because it was cheaper but because they wished a custom-built bodywork.

There were three different engine versions brought out in three years. Along with a six-cylinder unit, Daimler-Benz developed an inline-eight with side-valves that failed to live up to expectations. It was rebuilt with overhead valves and offered 90 hp in naturally aspirated version or 120 hp with the help of a supercharger. A third version was fitted with a different supercharger offering up to 140 hp. The last in the line was a 4.0-liter unit with a supercharger that provided the same output. All of them were mated to a three-speed transmission with overdrive.