The story and history behind the 1938 Mercedes-Benz 320 A Cabriolet.

Let me give you a detailed picture of its background, development, and place in automotive history.

Origins: Mercedes-Benz in the 1930s

In the 1930s, Mercedes-Benz was firmly established as Germany’s premier luxury automaker. Their lineup was known for refinement, advanced engineering, and prestige. By the late 1930s, the company was building cars in a politically charged atmosphere, with Germany under Nazi rule. Despite this, Mercedes continued to focus on luxury and innovation, producing vehicles that catered to wealthy industrialists, diplomats, and high-ranking officials.

The Mercedes-Benz 320 series (W142) was introduced in 1937 as the successor to the Mercedes 290 (W18). It was aimed at the upper-middle-class luxury segment, just below the elite 500K and 770 models, offering both comfort and performance for long-distance touring.

Technical Details

• Model designation: Mercedes-Benz 320 (W142)

• Production years: 1937–1942

• Engine: 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder, producing around 78 horsepower (later increased to ~85 hp).

• Top speed: About 130 km/h (80 mph), quite good for its size and era.

• Transmission: 4-speed manual with overdrive.

• Chassis: Advanced for the time, featuring independent suspension at all four wheels.

• Variants: The W142 chassis could be fitted with a wide range of bodies — limousines, sedans, roadsters, and cabriolets (convertibles).

The A Cabriolet was the sportiest and most elegant body style, usually a two-door, four-seat convertible with sweeping fenders, long hood, and luxurious trim.

Design & Luxury

The 320 A Cabriolet embodied 1930s luxury motoring:

• Handcrafted coachwork, often by Mercedes’ own Sindelfingen plant.

• Distinctive styling with tall radiator grille, flowing lines, and covered spare wheels integrated into the fenders.

• Interiors finished in fine leather, polished wood veneers, and high-quality fittings.

• Folding soft top, allowing for both open-air touring and closed comfort.

It was less ostentatious than the supercharged 540K, but still extremely exclusive. Buyers were typically high-ranking businessmen, aristocrats, or government officials.

Historical Context

The 320 series was built during a turbulent time:

• Pre-WWII Europe: Production began just before the outbreak of WWII in 1939.

• Many 320s, including Cabriolets, were used by Nazi officials, the Wehrmacht (as staff cars), and German embassies abroad.

• Civilian production gradually decreased after 1939 as resources were diverted to the war effort.

Because of this, relatively few 320 A Cabriolets survived the war, making them rare collectibles today.

Legacy & Collectability

• The 1938 Mercedes-Benz 320 A Cabrioletrepresents the last era of true pre-war luxury touring cars before the devastation of WWII.

• Survivors are highly sought after in the classic car world, valued for their rarity, craftsmanship, and historical significance.

• Prices today can exceed $250,000–$400,000, depending on originality and condition.

• Restored examples are often seen at Concours d’Elegance events like Pebble Beach or Villa d’Este.

In short:
The 1938 Mercedes-Benz 320 A Cabriolet was a luxurious, beautifully engineered pre-war convertible designed for wealthy clientele. With its elegant design, advanced technology, and historical ties to the late 1930s, it stands as a symbol of both automotive artistry and the complicated era in which it was built.