The Mercedes-Benz 170 VK, designated W136 K, was a light military vehicle developed from the civilian Mercedes 170 V and produced for the German Wehrmacht between 1938 and 1942. It was designed to fulfill various non-combat support roles such as transport, communication, and reconnaissance. With over 19,000 units built, it became the second-most produced German light open military vehicle of World War II, following the Volkswagen Kübelwagen. The 170 VK combined Mercedes-Benz engineering quality with practical wartime adaptations.
Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the Mercedes 170 VK was the M136 engine, a 1.7-liter inline 4-cylinder, originally developed for civilian use. It produced 38 horsepower at 3,400 rpm and approximately 10.2 kg·m of torque at 1,800 rpm, delivering modest but reliable performance suited for logistical roles rather than front-line combat. The engine was coupled with a 4-speed manual gearbox, with gear ratios optimized for off-road and convoy driving. The top speed was around 90 km/h, and fuel consumption averaged 13 liters per 100 km under normal conditions.
Chassis and Suspension
The VK used a cruciform oval-tube frame, offering a rigid yet lightweight structure. The vehicle was rear-wheel drive (4×2) and featured a transverse leaf spring suspension in the front and a swing axle with coil springs in the rear. This setup provided moderate off-road capability. The ZF-Ross worm-and-lever steering system and hydraulic brakes on all wheels made the vehicle maneuverable and dependable even in challenging conditions. A mechanical handbrake operated on the rear wheels.
Dimensions and Structure
The Mercedes 170 VK measured 4,100 mm in length, 1,690 mm in width, and 1,830 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,845 mm. The curb weight was 1,235 kg, and it had a maximum gross weight of 1,660 kg. The relatively compact dimensions allowed it to navigate narrow rural roads and woodland trails. The bodywork was adapted for military use with open-top configurations, easy-access doors, and a simplified dashboard, often made from wood and metal for ease of production and field repair. Some bodies were constructed using compressed fiberboard or aluminum panels, which made them lighter and easier to replace.
Military Variants and Usage of The Mercedes-Benz 170 VK
The 170 VK was versatile, produced in several military variants:
Kfz. 1: Standard open personnel carrier (Kübelwagen-type).
Kfz. 2: Light radio car, equipped with communication gear and antenna mounts.
Kfz. 3: Field equipment transport with a larger rear compartment, sometimes fitted with cable reels or other field equipment.
Though not heavily armored or armed, some versions featured mounts for light machine guns and were used for reconnaissance or command transport. They were typically assigned to logistics units, signals detachments, and officer transportation roles.
The Mercedes-Benz 170 VK exemplified the German Wehrmacht’s need for rugged, adaptable support vehicles during WWII. Its design balanced civilian comfort with military necessity, and its simplicity made it reliable in the field.
