1934 MERCEDES BENZ Typ 290 Cabriolet A (W18) 290 (68 HP)

Vehicle Overview

When Mercedes-Benz introduced the new lineup, named Typ 290, at the 1933 Berlin Motor Show, the economic crisis was already gone, and Germany’s economy was rising again.

That made the German automaker more creative and produced several closed or open-top vehicles on the same W18 chassis, available in two wheelbases. One of them was the Cabriolet A, which was a two-seat convertible fitted with the same engine and gearbox that moved the heavier Typ 290 Sedan. Moreover, thanks to its independent suspension in all corners, it provided more comfort than most other carmakers could provide.

With its sporty look, the Cabriolet A was considered a personal luxury convertible. Its long engine compartment that hosted the inline-six powerplant was flanked by the valanced front fenders extended continued with the side steps to ease the occupants’ ingress and egress. At the front, the V-shaped grille was surrounded by a thick chromed rim, while the arched bar in front of it supported the three headlights. To access the cabin, Mercedes installed rear-hinged doors, which were considered more practical, even though they were not that safe. At the back, the sloped trunk created a flowing line and evoked sportiness. For long travels, the carmaker prepared a cradle for two spare wheels mounted behind the trunk between the half rear bumpers.

Inside, the cockpit featured two leather-wrapped bucket seats. The four-on-the-floor shifter was bent so the driver could use it properly without hitting the passenger’s knees. On the dash panel, the automaker installed three dials, with the gauges for the fuel level and coolant temperature on the left, the speedometer in the middle, and the tachometer on the right.

The 2.9-liter engine offered 59 hp (60 PS) at the launch. Later, the automaker increased the compression ratio and gained eight more ponies.