An exceptionally rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 170 S-D Diesel pickup truck (W136 series).

It is believed that fewer than 80 examples were produced by Mercedes-Benz and that only 4 of these left the factory right-hand-drive.

Over 14,800 170 S-Ds were produced between 1952 and 1955 in a variety of body styles - the body on frame design made it perfect for ambulances, estates and other utilitarian configurations.

Powered by the OM636 1.8 litre four-cylinder diesel engine (40 HP) that was known for its durability, reliability, low running costs and practicality.

The fuel system is a direct injection, mechanically controlled Bosch 4-plunger injection pump. The engine is coupled to a 4-speed column shift manual transmission and the package delivered modest power but was very fuel efficient – perfect for government vehicles in post-war Germany.

Due to their extensive use in the commercial sector, very few 170 S-D pickups have survived in good condition, making them an extremely rare collector’s item.

THE CAR

Extremely low production run – incredibly unique car - a Mercedes-Benz collector’s dream.

The original record from Mercedes-Benz Germany notes this vehicle as an exported “170 SD Plank Bed Car W136, 185” that was shipped with 1 kg of colour, stone guards under the tank and a “right hand steering wheel”.

This car was delivered to Australia as a knock-down kit with a single page of details specifying engine number and body number. The body was manufactured by Lueg of Bochum and the kit came complete with one litre of “Stein Grau” (Stone Grey) paint. It was purchased and used by the Adelaide Electricity Board.

When the current owner bought the car in 2001, it had been used as a farm vehicle and arrived in Queensland in a sorry state. The wooden (probably beech) flooring of the tray bed was rotted out and replaced by a loose metal sheet. The doors and cabin were attached to the rusty chassis only with fencing wire.

An extensive body off, chassis-up restoration commenced in 2001 which was brilliantly carried out by Ken Ward at Yandina Panel and Paint over a period of three years. Most of the cabin and tray sides were replaced and any rust was meticulously repaired with new metal.

The car was resprayed in its original Stone Grey as specified in the documentation as supplied by Mercedes Benz.

Mechanical restoration of the engine, gearbox and other required components was carried out by Brian Hughes at Globalmax in Gympie. The tray bed has been replaced with red gum timber which is a fantastic contrast to the grey body.

The current owner used the car for many years in his bee-keeping business and drove around the Sunshine Coast tending to his bee hives.

Over the past 6 months, the car’s interior has been treated to new custom-made door cards and seat coverings in the original style red vinyl. A new headlining, rear window panel lining and new carpets have also been custom made and installed.

The car’s engine was also rebuilt and re-commissioned in 2025, and brand-new radial tyres have just been fitted in 2026.

Suicide doors complete this special package.

There is some minor fettling required to completely finish this beauty.

Chassis No: 136 185-45 05474

Body Shell No: RA136 185-45 02537

Engine Number: R636 934-4505661

Body Type: 136 185 (170 Ute)

Calling all Mercedes-Benz fans - you won’t find another one.