1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster (more pics below 👇)
Sindelfingen’s coachwork for the 540 K evolved through several iterations, with the Special Roadster’s long-tail, high-door design representing the most dramatic expression. Sweeping fenders with subtle skirting, a set-back radiator, and doors that curved past the concealed top into a flowing upturned tail created one of the 1930s most visually striking automobiles.
The most exclusive examples featured a covered rear spare beneath a flush decklid accented by a chrome-edged dorsal fin.
Production remained exceptionally limited, with approximately 26 Special Roadsters completed between 1936 and 1940. These represented the most expensive body style offered on the 540 K chassis, priced at roughly 28,000 Reichsmarks before options.
Power came from a 329 cubic inch supercharged inline-eight producing about 115 horsepower under normal operation and up to 180 horsepower when the Roots-type supercharger was engaged. The driver could manually activate the compressor or engage it automatically by flooring the throttle, making the 540 K capable of genuine 100 mph performance.
Built on a 117.3-inch wheelbase with the entire drivetrain positioned approximately 7.3 inches behind the front axle, the Special Roadster combined aggressive proportions with refined engineering from Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen facility.
Source
