1935 Mercedes-Benz 500K “Special Roadster”
Built for Germany’s high-speed Autobahn network, this exclusive roadster featured some of the most striking coachwork of the 1930s. The Special Roadster represented the most desirable body style in the 500K lineup, with only 29 examples created during the mid-1930s production run.
Hermann Ahrens designed the flowing bodywork at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen facility, featuring sweeping fenders and prominent external exhaust pipes. The long-tail variant remains particularly sought after today.
Priced at 28,000 Reichsmark (about $11,200 in 1935), the Special Roadster commanded a substantial premium over the standard 500K at 22,000 Reichsmark (about $8,800 in 1935).
Power came from a straight-eight 5,018cc engine with an innovative supercharging system derived from aircraft technology. The Roots-type blower engaged only at full throttle, delivering up to 160 horsepower and a distinctive howling sound. All-round independent suspension provided advanced handling capabilities for the period.
Mercedes built just 342 total 500K chassis between 1934 and 1936, making any surviving example exceptionally rare.
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