Grand Dame: 1936 Mercedes-Benz 230 Cabriolet B

The world of antique Mercedes-Benz products is multi-faceted, to say the least, with some models like the iconic 540K consistently among the most sought-after collector cars on the world stage. As you work your way down the food chain, other models certainly come up as sought-after collectibles but at a considerably lower price of entry (that’s not to say cheap). This 1936 Mercedes-Benz 230 Cabriolet B is one of those models, listed here on eBay with an asking price of $79,500 or best offer after being removed from storage, where it’s been since 1964.

In a trend that shows you very little of what we see today is effectively “new,” the 230 was a lower-priced, six-cylinder offering that mimicked Mercedes’ eight-cylinder offerings. This isn’t any different from what we see with the majority of the lower-priced entries from luxury brands, wherein the entry-level models integrate styling cues that resemble the more expensive models but with lower horsepower and higher production numbers. This 230 today obviously represents a compelling entry point into vintage Mercedes ownership if the likes of the eight-cylinder supercharged models are out of reach, but it will still be a six-figure acquisition by the time the restoration is completed.

The good news is it appears that you are starting with a decent example, especially considering how long it’s been off the road. The body does not appear to have any significant rust and the interior features leather seats that actually look usable as-is. The door panels are intact as is the dash with clear factory gauges and an original steering wheel that gives most city buses a run for their money. The selling dealer reports it has been under the same ownership for the last fifty years, and we wonder if the last owner intended to restore the car (hence going off the road and never to return) but didn’t have the time or funds to get around to it. In another bit of good news, it appears they didn’t begin tearing it down and storing parts in boxes.

Known as the W143, the 2.3L engine featured a Solex carburetor and was paired with a fully-synchronized four-speed manual gearbox. The cabriolet variant was offered in four different trims, primarily related to the roof design. As a Cabriolet “B”, this example came with a four-passenger interior and rear quarter windows. This is a compelling option for someone who wants to own a marque and model that will be gladly accepted at a variety of prestigious Concours events, but I wouldn’t approach it as a restoration project that will make a whole lot of financial sense if your intention is to revive and flip. No matter what, a car like this deserves to be restored.