Mercedes-Benz 170V Spider Frua
The Mercedes-Benz 170V Spider Frua is a classic one-off that was built in 1949. It is a small, two-seat convertible sports car that was designed by the Italian coachbuilder Pietro Frua. The car was built on the chassis of the Mercedes-Benz 170V, which was a popular compact car in Germany at the time.
Vehicle Overview
The Mercedes-Benz 170V Spider Frua, crafted by the renowned Italian designer Pietro Frua, is a unique and exquisite example of pre-war automotive design. Based on the Mercedes-Benz 170V platform, which was originally introduced in 1936, this one-off creation was produced in limited numbers until 1939. The car was equipped with a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 38 horsepower—a modest output by modern standards, but sufficient to achieve a respectable top speed of around 80 miles per hour. This performance, combined with its lightweight construction, made the 170V Spider Frua an impressive vehicle for its time. Pietro Frua’s design for the 170V Spider is distinguished by its elegant and timeless aesthetic. The car features smooth, flowing lines and a streamlined shape that were remarkably advanced for the late 1930s. Its long hood, short rear deck, and low, wide stance impart a sporty and dynamic appearance, reflecting Frua’s ability to infuse his designs with both grace and performance-oriented style. These elements echoed his other creations from the period, such as the Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet and the Fiat 1100C Spider, which shared similar stylistic cues. The interior of the 170V Spider Frua was equally refined. It featured luxurious leather seats and a simple yet functional dashboard, embodying the minimalist elegance typical of Frua’s work. The combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design details made the cabin a comfortable and sophisticated environment, perfectly complementing the car’s exterior allure. Unfortunately, only one specimen of the Mercedes-Benz 170V Spider Frua was ever built, making it an incredibly rare piece of automotive history. The car’s fate remains unknown, shrouding it in an aura of mystery and intrigue. Its singular existence and enigmatic story add to its allure, making it a coveted artifact for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry and innovation of coachbuilt automobiles. The 170V Spider Frua stands as a testament to Pietro Frua’s visionary talent and his ability to transform a solid German sedan into a bespoke masterpiece of automotive design. It remains a symbol of the creative synergy between engineering and artistry, capturing the spirit of an era when automobiles were crafted with an unparalleled dedication to beauty and individuality.
Technical Specifications
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Body
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Year1949
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MakeMercedes-Benz
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Model170 V Spider
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CoachbuilderFrua
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Units built1
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Engine Type4L
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DesignerPietro Frua
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