1933→1934 Mercedes-Benz 380
The 380 was produced in a limited production of just 154 cars as a smaller eight-cylinder alternative to the larger luxurious cars.
Being a somewhat sporting alternative, the 380 was the first Mercedes-Benz to use an independant suspension setup with double wishbones up front and a swing-axle setup in the rear.
The 3820cc engine was delivered in one of three specifications including the standard M22 15/90 PS version. An external compressor was offered for the M22 which made the 380K 15/120 PS. The ultimate version was M22K integraded compressor called the 15/140 PS.
Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen offered six body styles for the 380 including a Tourenwagen, Sport-Roadster, Cabriolet A, Cabriolet B and Cabriolet C. Mercedes also listed the price of 13,000 marks for the bare chassis.
In 1934 the 380 was replaced outright by the 500K.
In Detail
| tags | W22 |
| submitted by | Richard Owen |
| type | Limited Production Car |
| production years | 1933 – 1934 |
| released at | 1933 Berlin Motor Show |
| built at | Untertürkheim, Germany |
| production | 154 |
| succeccesor | 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500 K |
| engine | Inline-8 |
| displacement | 3820 cc / 233.11 in³ |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| wheel type | Rudge Whitworth Wire |
| transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
Auction Sales History
1934 Mercedes-Benz 380 K Cabriolet A 95364 – sold for €1,416,000
High-class restoration, matching numbers. One of four survivors from 16 built. Pebble Beach Award Winner in 2005. 1934 Geneva Motor Show. Of the 150 or so Mercedes 380s ever made, just 16 were Cabriolet A’s, and only 3 or 4 others are thought to have survived. Our car is luxuriously fitted, with a handsome wooden dashboard and adjustable seats. Since its 8,000-hour restoration it has remained impeccable, with dark red leather upholstery, matching red carpet and classy, two-tone red paintwork. Beneath the bonnet is the original, splendidly sober, eight-cylinder engine with its supercharger at the front. Technically the equivalent of the 540 K (of which 156 were built), but less excessive and also lighter, this 380 constitutes a rare chance to acquire one of the most prestigious Mercedes of the 1930s – in impressive condition and with a prestigious and value-enhancing motor show history.
Auction Source: Rétromobile 2015 by Artcurial Motorcars
