The 170 S model was unveiled in May 1949 at the Hannover Technical Export Fair alongside the more utilitarian 170 D as the first new passenger car models introduced by Mercedes-Benz following World War II. The 170 S rode on underpinnings derived from the 170 V, but with a more powerful variant of the engine, a coil-sprung wishbone front suspension, and a roomier body with styling based on the pre-war 230 luxury model. In addition to a four-door saloon, the 170 S was offered in both two- and four-seat cabriolet variants.

The 1,767cc M136 inline-four is a higher-displacement derivative of the powerplant used in the 170 V and was factory rated at 52 horsepower and 82 ft-lb of torque. Features include a detachable aluminum cylinder head and a downdraft Solex carburetor. 

Power is sent to the rear wheels via an all-synchromesh four-speed manual transmission and a rear swing axle with a 4.375:1 ratio. Coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers are utilized as part of both the rear suspension and the double-wishbone front setup, the latter of which incorporates an anti-roll bar.

The Ron Sturgeon Collection