French title

Chassis No 18701204455/52 Engine No 18092004650/52

Collection Gilbert Thos, Mercedes-Benz coachbuilder and restorer

 

 

- In this collection for the past 40 years

- Beautiful high-quality restoration

- Only 1,278 units produced

- No reserve

 

At the first “Frankfurt International Motor Show” in April 1951, Daimler-Benz proudly unveiled the 220 and 300 models, both powered by modern inline six-cylinder engines with overhead camshafts. Like the 170 S, the 220 was offered in three body types: saloon, cabriolet A and cabriolet B. A coupe version was later made available at the request of major customers. Only 1,278 cabriolet A examples were manufactured for the 1952 production year.

This particular example had been registered in Paris since 1957 when Gilbert Thos acquired it in 1985. Like other vehicles in the collection, this car had a full high-quality restoration carried out to similar standards as cars he restored for Mercedes-Benz France. Over 30 years later, we can appreciate the quality of adjustments when it comes to bodywork panels as well as the paint finish in ivory colour (which particularly suits this model). Inside, the stunning red leather upholstery is enhanced with elegant woodwork touches. The dashboard is equipped with a period Becker car radio. The engine is the right type and from the correct year, not to mention that it’s had the same amount of care as the rest of the car. As a very pleasant car to drive, the Mercedes W187 is known for its exceptional consistency and has the ability to cover long distances without fatigue, making this model highly sought after by collectors. Restored meticulously, this example deserves to join a beautiful collection.

 

Gilbert Thos, a collector under the sign of the star.

 

After studying ship carpentry and boilermaking at the Pont de Buy naval school in Brittany where he was born in 1928, he moved to Paris to work as an automobile bodywork specialist. He then joined the aviation industry and specialised in aluminium. Very quickly however, he returned into the automobile industry, where his passion lies. He was hired as a sheet metal shaper by major bodywork specialists of that era.

In 1958, he founded his own business in Saint-Ouen, the heart of the coachbuilding industry. His business prospered, along with his reputation. It was at this point that Mercedes-Benz appointed him as the official bodywork specialist for the brand. For over 20 years, he was also the coachbuilder for Mercedes-Benz France.

From the 1980s onwards, he focused solely on the restoration of classic Mercedes cars. Many of his restorations were displayed at the Mercedes-Benz space on the Champs Elysees and he also exhibited at the Retromobile Show for a few years.

He built up his own collection of around twenty vehicles; the 170V of 1936 and the 220A of 1952 were his favourite cars.

Photos © Alexis Ruben