1934 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster

Originally introduced in 1934 as the successor to the short-lived 380 K, the Mercedes-Benz 500 K represented the next evolution of supercharged, eight-cylinder engineering. Designed by the brilliant Dr. Hans Nibel, 500 K models are celebrated for their rich heritage and iconic status in automotive history. Now, a stunning [Add Color] 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster is set to be auctioned on the Bring a Trailer auction platform. This unique vehicle, celebrated for its rare “long-tail” body style and striking covered spare tire stands today as a representation to the artistry and engineering brilliance of Mercedes-Benz’s prestigious Sindelfingen plant.

Limited Production

With just 342 Mercedes-Benz 500 K chassis produced between 1934 and 1936, the Special Roadster is among the most coveted pre-war automobiles. Of these, only 29 were 500 K Roadsters, and even fewer featured the exquisite long-tail Special Roadster design. In the past decade, only six long-tail Special Roadsters have appeared at auction, four of which had new coachwork. Of those, just two featured the distinctive covered spare. This specific vehicle, chassis number 105179, features its original chassis and supercharged engine, both of which survived the destruction wrought by World War II. Its preserved chassis, combined with its stunning body, has a rich history and holds a prominent legacy in automotive circles across the globe.

WWII

Ordered in 1934 by a dealer in The Hague, Netherlands, it was originally fitted with a Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet B body before that body was completely destroyed during the war, as The Netherlands was a battleground for five years. After years of storage, the car was eventually acquired by a Danish baron in the 1960’s, placing the vehicle in his Aalholm automobile museum which was held on the grounds of his castle. As Special Roadsters began selling for record prices throughout the 1980’s, the baron tasked his museum craftsmen with applying a roadster body in the 1990s. The restoration was commendable, but not to factory specifications. The baron’s daughter recalls it as her father’s favorite and a favorite among museum visitors. After the museum closed and a 2012 auction sparked a bidding war, the car was acquired by its current owner.

New Life

Immediately, the car was rebodied by master craftsman Casimir Nawrocki, who is renowned for his award-winning work on classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Nawrocki’s coachwork faithfully adheres to factory specifications while achieving a level of precision and quality that surpasses even the original manufacturing. Nawrocki’s craftsmanship extended beyond just fabricating body panels; he crafted dozens of brass trim pieces and engineered mechanisms for window lifts, door and panel locks, and movable vents. Before all of this, however, Cass had to restore the chassis, carefully repairing war damage to ensure every component was strong, properly aligned, and returned to factory specifications.

The original chassis and engine were sent to the Pacific Northwest, where a team of award-winning Mercedes-Benz interior specialists, led by expert Jim Friswold, undertook the restoration. He was supported by Ken Dickman, who crafted the seats, convertible top and leather trimmed carpet. The engine was serviced by Bearing Services Co. Every component was either restored or replaced, including new bearings and pistons. The 500 K Special Roadster is powered by its original 5 liter straight-eight engine, an advanced piece of engineering for its era, providing both power and sophistication.

Coachbuilding was a hallmark of automotive craftsmanship, especially in the 1930s, allowing for highly customized and elegant car designs. Manufacturers would deliver chassis to clients, who could choose from catalog body styles or commission bespoke work from specialists. This practice was not only a testament to the custom nature of luxury vehicles but also a reflection of the era’s evolving tastes and technological advancements. This 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster upholds this legacy, preserving its status as a symbol of automotive artistry.

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Painstaking Restoration

After 7 years of restoration, this vehicle has earned numerous accolades on the concours circuit, including Best of Show honors at four events and multiple awards from the Mercedes-Benz Club of America. With its sweeping fenders, striking chrome accents, and flowing design, it commands attention and admiration wherever it is displayed. Vehicles like the 500 K Special Roadster rarely come to market, as they are typically housed in prestigious private collections and museums. This car, with its distinguished history, flawless restoration, and prestigious accolades, is poised to capture the attention of the world’s most discerning automotive collectors.