1937 Mercedes-Benz Typ 320 N Coupe 320

Vehicle Overview

Mercedes-Benz launched the Typ 320 in 1937, and, besides sedans and convertibles, it also offered the car with a coupe bodywork on the regular-sized wheelbase that sported the N-letter in its name.

The W142 range was wide and comprised many bodywork versions. It was available as a limousine or military vehicle, the latter being known as the Kubelwagne. But the automaker knew that its customers wanted it to be a fast and luxurious vehicle, able to run at high speeds on the recently inaugurated highway system known as the Autobahn.

The 320 N’s design was clearly inspired by the famous 540K, with its tapered radiator grille that was slightly tilted backward. While it wasn’t exactly streamlined, it was not flat and vertical. Its curved, tall, and long front fenders that supported the headlights with horizontal struts resembled the bigger, more powerful sibling. The coupe’s low roofline resembled the one from its main competitor, the BMW 327, but it looked sleeker. In addition, the rear-hinged doors made ingress and egress easier for the occupants.

Mercedes-Benz installed 2+1 seating inside, with two bucket seats at the front and a rear seat facing inwards that was offered as an option. It was an unusual solution that allowed enough room for a third person or a child. But on the other hand, the driver was spoiled with ample space, and the dials were mounted in the middle of the dashboard.

The carmaker opted for an inline-six powerplant for the drivetrain that could deliver just a mere 78 PS (77 hp) and paired it with a four-speed manual. The front suspension sported coil springs, while at the back, a floating axle sent the power to the ground.