Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster

The Mercedes-Benz company has always been known as a supplier of magnificent cars, which are in great demand among the political, artistic and commercial aristocracy.

Released before the Second World War, the 540K model was the culmination of the development of the brand's prestigious models.

After the merger of Daimler and Benz in 1926, the commercial success of the new company primarily depended on the production of mass-market cars such as the MB 170 and the middle-class cars oriented to the market - MB 290 and MB 320.

In order to capture the niche of cheap cars to operate , the demand for which was dictated mainly by taxi companies, in 1935 Mercedes-Benz was the first to mass-produce a diesel passenger car MB 260D.

The upper middle class, not so numerous, was content with the technically outdated, but still respectable MB 460 and MB 500 Nürburg models.

The constant updating and improvement of the lower and middle models forced the company's management, in order to maintain the prestige of the brand, to develop new cars in the top part of the range.

The first car from this series - Mercedes-Benz 380K was presented to the public at the Berlin Motor Show in 1933 and was replaced by 500K already in 1934. The car received its final development in 1936 in the form of the Mercedes-Benz 540K model.

All of these models were based on a strong steel spar frame, a new in-line eight-cylinder overhead valve engine with a traditional compressor and independent spring suspension on all wheels.

The engine displacement has grown from 232 cu in (3796 cc) to 330 cu in (5401 cc) in three years, and its power (with the compressor on) has increased from 120 to 180 hp.

Each of the 406 540Ks built between 1936 and 1939 was individually assembled to the highest German standards using the finest materials.

Many cars carry custom bodies from the best workshops in the world, but most are completely manufactured in Mercedes-Benz factories.

Masterpiece of Automotive Engineering

The Mercedes Benz 540K Special Roadster is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and timeless cars of all time. With its elegant, sweeping curves and powerful presence, this car is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering.

Photo: "Special-Roadster fastback_3157c" by hoyasmeg

The man behind this iconic car was none other than the German designer, Friedrich Geiger.

Geiger was one of the most prominent designers of his time and had a great passion for creating beautiful and functional automobiles. He was known for his ability to create unique designs that were ahead of their time.

The 540K Special Roadster was no exception. It was considered the most luxurious and expensive car of its time.

At the heart of the 540K lies a supercharged 330 cu in (5.4-liter) inline-eight engine that produces a whopping 180 hp, and could reach a top speed of 110 mph (177 kph), ensuring that this car is not only a work of art, but also a force to be reckoned with on the road.

The exterior of the 540K is equally impressive, with its flowing lines and distinctive grille giving the car a truly regal and imposing appearance.

The sleek, aerodynamic bodywork is matched by a sumptuous interior that is designed for comfort and luxury, with plush leather seats and high-quality materials throughout. The interior was also fantastic, featuring luxurious materials and intricate details.

Hermann Goering's "Blue Goose"

The sleek curves of Hermann Goering's "Blue Goose" Mercedes-Benz 540K special roadster could turn any head on the street.

Its vibrant blue paint job shimmered in the sunlight, as if daring anyone to challenge its royal status. This car was meant to be seen, and Goering wasn't shy about showing it off.

As one of the most powerful and feared figures in Nazi Germany, Goering relished his status as a man of wealth and taste. He spared no expense when it came to his personal comfort and style, and his choice of car exemplified this attitude perfectly.

The "Blue Goose" was more than just a luxurious vehicle - it was a symbol of power, a testament to Goering's position as one of Hitler's closest advisors.

When he roared down the "autobahn" behind the wheel of this car, he knew that he was making a statement that everyone would hear loud and clear.

Unfortunately for Goering, his love of conspicuous consumption would prove to be his downfall. As the war turned against Germany, and the Allies closed in on Berlin, Goering would be forced to flee in his beloved car - but he would never enjoy it again.

In the end, the "Blue Goose" would be seized by the victorious Allies as a symbol of Nazi excess, a dark reminder of the terrible years that had come before.

One of the Most Expensive Purchases

Have you heard about the sale of the coveted Mercedes-Benz 540K special roadster in 2016 in Phoenix, Arizona? It was sold for an astonishing $9.9 million! Can you believe it? That's like buying a small island or a private jet.

I mean, it's a beautiful car and all, but that price tag is just insane. Apparently, it's one of only 26 ever made and was once owned by a renowned celebrity.

I guess that's the kind of exclusivity and history that commands such a high price. But let's be real, how many of us can afford that kind of luxury?

Nonetheless, it's always fascinating to see what people are willing to pay for their dream cars. After all, you can see in this video how that beauty looks.

But, Hey! It's not the only 540K Special Roadster sold for that much money. Another sold in Monterey County, California in August 2022 for practically the same amount ($9,905,000).

Conclusion

Despite its almost unparalleled beauty and power, the 540K Special Roadster is also a rare and exclusive vehicle, with only a handful of examples ever produced.

For those lucky enough to own one, it is a true collector's item, and a testament to the enduring allure of classic cars.