Segment: Roadster & Convertible
Production years: 1937, 1938
Mercedes-Benz introduced the Typ 320 in 1937 in several shapes and sizes and assigned the N-letter to the short wheelbase version, from Normal.
With the W142 range, Mercedes-Benz tried to cover most car segments with the same chassis and different bodyworks. Later on, the carmaker even built military vehicles, such as the Kubelwagen, and various closed-body versions. But there was a high demand for smaller, lighter roadsters that could carry mostly two people and travel fast on the new (then) Autobahn network.
The 320 N's design was clearly inspired by the famous 540K, with its tapered radiator grille that was slightly tilted backward. It wasn't exactly streamlined, but still, it was not flat and vertical. Its curved, tall, and long front fenders that supported the headlights with horizontal struts resembled the bigger, more powerful sibling. The short, rear-hinged doors allowed the occupants' easy ingress and egress. Even though it wasn't a true sports car, it offered a sloped, aerodynamic rear end. The spare wheel was mounted on the rear panel under a metallic cover.
Inside, Mercedes-Benz installed 2+1 seating, with two bucket seats at the front. In addition, a rear seat facing inwards found its place behind the driver's seat. It was an unusual solution that allowed enough room for a third person instead of installing a bench with no legroom. But, on the other hand, the driver was spoiled with ample space, and the dials were mounted in the middle of the dashboard.
The carmaker opted for an inline-six powerplant for the drivetrain that could deliver just a mere 78 PS (77 hp) and paired it with a four-speed manual. The front suspension sported coil springs, while at the back, a floating axle sent the power to the ground.
ENGINE SPECS - 320 | |
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Cylinders: | L8 |
Displacement: | 3208 cm3 |
Power: | 57 KW @ 4000 RPM 78 HP @ 4000 RPM 76 BHP @ 4000 RPM |
Torque: | 161 lb-ft @ 1700 RPM 218 Nm @ 1700 RPM |
Fuel System: | Carburetor |
Fuel: | Gasoline |
PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
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Top Speed: | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
TRANSMISSION SPECS | |
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Drive Type: | Rear Wheel Drive |
Gearbox: | Manual, 4 Speed |
BRAKES SPECS | |
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Front: | Drums |
Rear: | Drums |
TIRES SPECS | |
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Tire Size: | 6.50-17 |
DIMENSIONS | |
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Length: | 185 in (4699 mm) |
Width: | 69.7 in (1770 mm) |
Height: | 59.1 in (1501 mm) |
Front/rear Track: | 58.1/59.1 in (1,476/1,501 mm) |
Wheelbase: | 113.4 in (2880 mm) |
WEIGHT SPECS | |
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Unladen Weight: | 3803 lbs (1725 kg) |
Gross Weight Limit: | 5070 lbs (2300 kg) |
FUEL ECONOMY (NEDC) | |
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Combined: | 13.8 mpg US (17 L/100Km) |
CO2 Emissions: | 406 g/km |