The 1938 Mercedes-Benz 230 Coupe with custom coachwork by Baur offers a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship of two distinct eras.

Originally delivered as a sedan in late 1938, this vehicle began its life in Dortmund, Germany, equipped with a six-cylinder chassis and embodying pre-war engineering excellence. However, its story takes an intriguing turn in the post-war years, when Stuttgart-based coachbuilder Baur rebodied it, likely between 1949 and 1951, during a time when resources were scarce and ingenuity was paramount. Baur, later renowned for its work with BMW convertibles and as a Porsche collaborator, applied streamlined, modern styling to this chassis.

The design reflects influences from prominent European coachbuilders like Saoutchik and Antem, evident in its flowing lines and refined proportions. While largely intact, the car was repowered with a 1954 Mercedes 220 engine, adding another layer to its unique history. Stored out of sight for over four decades, this coupe now stands as a restoration project. It offers the chance to revive a piece of automotive history that bridges the pre- and post-war periods. Accompanied by a copy of its original build sheet, this rare vehicle is for sale at $89,500 here in Astoria, NY.