MERCEDES-BENZ The 1950s Volume 1: W136 W187 W186 W188 W189

Our review of MERCEDES-BENZ, The 1950s, Volume 1 explains why this 260-page book is a useful reference for enthusiasts and restorers of early postwar Mercedes cars. Updated in March 2016, the book focuses on the W136, W187, W186, W188 and W189 series and delivers a concentrated mix of historical context, chassis number guidance and many recent color photos that show bodywork and suspension detail. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of chassis number and data card explanation with high-quality non-Daimler AG photos that make identification and restoration research far easier.

Key Features

• Comprehensive coverage: Covers the development and variations of the 170, 220 and 300 series, so readers get clear lineage and model differences in one volume.
• Chassis number guidance: Detailed explanation of chassis numbers and data cards aids accurate identification for collectors and mechanics.
• Recent color photography: Many superb non-Daimler AG color photos include suspension and body detail, providing visual reference for restoration work.
• Model depth: Discusses a range of variants such as Cabriolets, Coupes and diesel versions, giving insight into rare and common configurations.
• Historical context: Explains development threads like the Auto-Union/Audi connection and early C-class origins to situate each model historically.

Who It's For

This book is aimed at classic Mercedes enthusiasts, independent restorers and owners of W136, W187, W186, W188 and W189 cars who need a focused reference on identification, variant differences and chassis documentation. The photo detail and chassis number sections are particularly useful for anyone researching provenance or planning mechanical or cosmetic restoration.

It is less appropriate for readers seeking a broad, lavish coffee-table history or a manufacturer-produced catalog of factory specifications. Buyers who need exhaustive workshop manuals or step-by-step repair guides should pair this book with technical service literature.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Concise, model-focused coverage that makes cross-referencing variants straightforward.
• Clear chassis number and data card explanation that supports accurate vehicle identification.
• Well-illustrated with recent color photos showing suspension and body details useful to restorers.

Cons

• Not a substitute for a full workshop manual; mechanical procedures are not covered step-by-step.
• The scope is limited to early 1950s models, so later Mercedes development is outside its focus.

Specifications

Our Verdict

For owners, restorers and collectors of early 1950s Mercedes cars this volume is a focused, practical resource that pairs chassis number guidance with useful photography. It is good value for anyone needing identification help or visual reference for Cabriolets, Coupes and the 170/220/300 family, though it should be supplemented with workshop manuals for hands-on repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include chassis number information?
Yes. It explains chassis number and data card details to help with model identification and provenance research.

Are there photos showing mechanical components?
Yes. The book contains many recent color photos, including images of suspensions and body detail useful to restorers.

Which models are covered?
The book concentrates on the early 1950s Mercedes models: the 170, 220 and 300 families across the W136, W187, W186, W188 and W189 series.