A few weeks ago I checked out one of my favorite Mercedes-Benz ever, the Adenauer. I just think for the money you pay and what you get, it is one of best values in the market for the mature post-war classic that you bring out for that special occasion. When the Adenauer production started in 1951, Mercedes also produced the W187 220 in saloon, coupé and cabriolet form. These were still full-size luxury cars, but not nearly as large in size compared to the imposing Adenauer. Today, I wanted to check out a 1952 220 Cabriolet B up for sale in California to see how it stacks up to the big brother Adenauer. What I found was that despite being a lesser model, doesn’t mean it is any less impressive and any cheaper.
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet B on eBay
Year: 1952
Model: 220 Cabriolet B
Engine: 2.2 liter inline-6
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 2,610 mi
Price: $135,000 Buy It Now
This 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet B was beautifully restored to an extremely high standard, and looks and operates just like it should! It was a frame-off total restoration done by the noted restorer of European automobiles, Barry Briskman at his Scottsdale facility . The restoration was fully documented by photos and detailed receipts, all of which are included with the sale. Only 997 220 Cabriolet “B” Mercedes Benz were produced!
The listing is pretty self-explanatory on this one. This was a frame-off, nut and bolt restoration that even went as far as fitting matching luggage for the trunk. The condition is no less than nearly perfect and it can hang with the big boys at any concours event. The really good thing is that you could take this car for a Sunday drive on a nice day and not feel super guilty about it. The 2.2 liter M180 can hang with traffic as long as you aren’t trying to cruise at 80 mph on the freeway and stops reasonably well also.
The price of $130,000 is a lot of money, but that is the price for all this work. The amount of hours it took to complete this car must have seemed like they were never-ending and the material cost to actually restore a W187 is far from affordable. If you want a turn-key car, this is what you’ll pay. Yes, you can find them cheaper, but they won’t be in this condition. Personally if I was in the market, I’d go for the Adenauer as I think it is a much better value, but if you want something a little more pristine, this isn’t a bad pick at all.
– Andrew
