The 1939 Mercedes Benz 540K Cabriolet is an excellent example of the use of aerodynamics during the 1930’s. Although a buyer could commission a custom body from a number of prominent coach-builders for these exclusive and expensive automobiles, the buyer of this car chose to have Mercedes’ own in-house styling department, Sindelfingen Body Werks, create the elegant coachwork seen here. It is a rare car indeed with cabriolet coachwork attached to a short wheelbase chassis. Mercedes Benz built only five of them and only three survive today. This car was originally delivered November 6, 1939, to Erhard Milch, Secretary for Air and Inspector General of the Luftwaffe – both posts were later combined into that of Reichminister under Hermann Goering. Powered by a 5.4 liter straight-eight supercharged engine, the car weighs in at a svelte 5,511 pounds, has a top speed of 106 mph, and gets about 8 miles per gallon on high octane fuel.
Design and Styling: The 540K Cabriolet is renowned for its elegant and timeless design. It features sweeping fenders, a long hood, and a distinctive grille with the iconic Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star. The car was available in various body styles, including two-door and four-door versions, each with a luxurious, handcrafted interior.
Engine and Performance: The "540K" designation indicates the car's engine specifications. It was powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter inline-eight engine, producing up to 180 horsepower with the supercharger engaged. This made the 540K one of the fastest and most powerful cars of its time, capable of reaching speeds over 100 mph (160 km/h).
Luxury and Features: The 540K Cabriolet was the epitome of luxury, featuring high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and chrome accents. The car offered advanced features for its time, including hydraulic brakes, independent suspension, and a four-speed manual transmission.
Production and Rarity: The production of the 540K was limited, with only a few hundred units made between 1936 and 1940. The Cabriolet versions were even rarer, making them highly desirable among collectors today.
Historical Significance: The 540K Cabriolet represents the pinnacle of pre-war automotive engineering and luxury. It was favored by the elite and wealthy individuals of the era. The car also reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail that Mercedes-Benz was known for.
Legacy: Today, the 540K Cabriolet is considered one of the most valuable and sought-after classic cars. Its rarity, performance, and elegance make it a centerpiece in prestigious car collections and a highlight at classic car auctions.
You may purchase a print of the 1939 Mercedes Benz 540K Cabriolet in our dElegance 2010 online gallery.