Unregistered

Chassis No 1153 Engine No 54801

- First production model with compressor!

- Desirable 2.6L version, short wheelbase

- In the same collection for 20 years

 

After developing compressors for aircraft engines at the end of the First World War, Mercedes was the first manufacturer in the world to apply supercharging to production automobiles. At the 1921 Berlin Motor Show, Paul Daimler introduced the Mercedes Sport 6/25/40 and 10/40/65 models, both equipped with a four-cylinder engine with an overhead camshaft and a Roots compressor.

Respectively, these 1.6 and 2.6-litre engines develop 6 and 10 fiscal horsepower, 25 and 40 or 40 and 65 horsepower depending on whether the compressor is engaged or not. The supercharger is activated by the driver pressing the accelerator pedal all the way down, resulting in a significant increase in power.

The Mercedes type 10/40/65 is therefore a sports touring model that was widely successful in racing with the short wheelbase version, known as “sport”. It was included in a major Hungarian collection when this example was discovered by Michel Broual in 2005 and was exchanged for a Panhard & Levassor from 1902.

As a knowledgeable enthusiast, the latter had been looking for one of these iconic Mercedes for a long time, of which only a few survivors remain. Inspection of the car revealed that it was built with an important part of original parts, including the engine and compressor, the front and rear axles, and many other compliant parts. An 8-page article published in 2005 featuring this example in the Veteran magazine indicated that around fifty Mercedes with compressors were registered in Hungary in 1924 and that only 3 survivors remained.

Even if the chassis plate is missing, the engine one is in its proper place. The chassis is stamped with the number 1153, which can be found (1153/41) on the engine casings, as well as appearing on its Hungarian title. In good overall condition visually and mechanically but mainly presented at exhibitions for 20 years, this exceptional Mercedes will require a standard service before being ready to take part in the most prestigious pre-war sports and racing car events.

 

 Photos © Sylvain Huteau