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The most coveted distinction at this year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance was clinched by the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster, triumphing over a collection of intriguing contenders for the coveted title of Best of Show in the United States. While the trophy traditionally finds its way into the hands of a pre-war Duesenberg or Talbot, this year introduced some post-war vehicles into the mix, such as a Porsche 901 prototype owned by Alois Ruf. Yet, it was the pre-war gem—the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster—that ultimately took home the grand prize.
The 1937 Mercedes 540K stands as the 50th vehicle from the 1930s among the 72 winners of the prestigious Pebble Beach Best of Show award.
Much like its predecessors, the 1937 Mercedes boasts a captivating history. Originally held by King Shah of Afghanistan in the 1930s, it sought refuge during WWII within the walls of the Afghanistan embassy in Paris until 1948. Subsequently passed on to King Shah’s son-in-law, who navigated its wheels through London for a brief period before selling it off. After changing hands multiple times, the 540K eventually found itself in the possession of its current owner, Jim Patterson from Louisville, Kentucky.
Only 26 Mercedes 540K Special Roadsters were manufactured, each housing a 5.4-liter supercharged inline-8 engine generating 180 horsepower. It boasted advanced suspension for its time, featuring independent double wishbone front suspension, coil springs, and rear swing-axle suspension with coil springs.
Upon its debut, the Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster commanded a price tag of approximately $12,000, equivalent to around $260,000 in today’s currency. The car in question, due to its unparalleled rarity, captivating tale, and triumph as the Best of Show at Pebble Beach, is deemed priceless.
While it would have been a pleasant surprise to witness a post-war vehicle claim victory this time around (with hopes pinned on Ruf’s Porsche 901 prototype), the Mercedes 540K Special Roadster is a marvel that captivates with both its beauty and performance. Congratulations to Jim Patterson and his exquisite pre-war Mercedes.
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