1931 MERCEDES BENZ “Grosser Mercedes” Cabriolet B (W07) 770

Vehicle Overview

This is one of the rarest Mercedes-Benz ever made, and the automaker introduced it on the market in 1931 after the rest of the W07, or “Grosser Mercedes” lineup.

In October 1930, the German automaker unveiled the W07 range at the Paris Motor Show. The nickname “Grosser Mercedes” (The Grand Mercedes) was not for nothing since the luxurious vehicle was over 5,5 meters (18 ft) long. After the introduction of the sedan version, the carmaker added the Convertibles B, C, D, and F in 1931 and 1932. The sportiest one was, obviously, the Cabriolet B. Unfortunately, allegedly only two of these were ever made. And it is understandable why, since soon the world went through the Great Depression in the ’30s, followed by WWII that started in 1938.

Unlike other open-top versions of the 770, the Cabriolet B was built on top of a short wheelbase version of the vehicle. In addition, the bodywork sported just two long doors. On the other hand, the front fascia remained the same, with that V-shaped radiator placed in a retracted position. In front of it, on a curved bar supported by the arched, extended wheel fenders. At the back, Mercedes-Benz created a sloped rear end for the trunk. In addition, the carmaker offered an option for an external crate as a trunk.

The cabin boasted leather-wrapped seats and door cards, while the dashboard was covered in wood veneers. Like its siblings, the Cabriolet B featured center-mounted dials. The floor-mounted gear stick was the only obstacle between the front seats.

Mercedes-Benz installed an inline-eight engine under the long Grosser-Mercedes hood. It was offered with or without a supercharger and offered the possibility to install the blower afterward if the owner considered it.