Unearthing a Time Capsule: The Backstory
This particular Mercedes 380 Cabriolet A surfaced from a deceased estate, having sat untouched and immobile for more than 30 years. Traced back through careful documentation, the car was last bought by its late owner in the early 1960s from a fellow enthusiast, Mr. Elliott of Warrington. Even at the time of purchase, the car was not running—explaining why it remained off the road for decades and gradually slipped into obscurity.
Authenticity and Engineering Excellence
What makes this Mercedes especially remarkable is its authenticity and completeness. Believed to be one of just 16 examples built, it retains its original M22 engine—an impressively advanced 3.8-litre straight-eight featuring overhead valves and a bolt-on Roots-type supercharger. When new, the M22 powerplant produced around 120hp, giving the 380 Cabriolet spirited performance for its era.
Its engineering was cutting-edge for the time, with a 4-speed manual gearbox, vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes at all four wheels, plus independent front suspension and a swing axle at the rear. These features helped place Mercedes-Benz at the forefront of luxury performance in the pre-war years, positioning the 380 Cabriolet A among the most technically sophisticated convertibles of its generation.
A Survivor With a British Story
Historical records confirm the car’s journey to the UK, with registration documents showing its arrival in 1936. The lengthy period of storage may have preserved more of its originality—the body, chassis, and much of the interior appear remarkably intact, even if time and neglect have taken their toll.
Classic Car Auction Success
When offered by Manor Park Classics on 19th July 2025, anticipation ran high among collectors and restorers alike. The sale price of £262,000 demonstrates the ongoing appetite for genuinely rare pre-war classics, particularly those with known provenance and exceptional engineering backgrounds. For a car with just 16 known siblings worldwide, the investment potential is enormous, especially once fully restored to its original glory.
Restoration Potential: Why the Value?
While a six-figure outlay might seem audacious for a non-running project, true collectors and marque experts recognize the long-term opportunity. Restored examples of the Mercedes 380 Cabriolet A are exceedingly rare and command premium prices internationally. With so much of the original mechanical package, bodywork, and period details still present, the new owner has a solid foundation, both for an authentic restoration and for a possible appearance on the concours circuit in the future.
Looking Ahead
The sale of this Mercedes-Benz 380 Cabriolet A underlines the enduring fascination with the golden age of motoring. As one of the most exclusive open-top models from the 1930s, its story is far from over. The car now passes into the hands of a dedicated enthusiast, who clearly appreciates the heritage and value that a proper, sympathetic restoration will unlock.
For a closer look at this remarkable car and more details on its journey, visit the Bridge Classic Cars website for the full feature.