1936 500K SPECIAL ROADSTER
The Mercedes-Benz 500K’s were beautiful, elegant, and exclusive models often outfitted with voluptuous coachwork and sold to wealthy clientele.
In 1904 Hans Nibel became the chief engineer of Benz. When Daimler-Benz merged, he assisted Dr. Ferdinand Porsche in developing a 6.8-liter supercharged engine that would be outfitted in the ‘K’, SS, SSK, and SSKL series. The engine created was later enlarged to capacities such as 7.0 and 7.1 liters producing 250 horsepower. The SS was described as the fastest sports car in the world at the time. The SSK was mechanically identical to the SS but was 19 inches shorter and designed for racing. The SSK dominated the racing circuit in the early 1930’s. As it began to age, Mercedes-Benz increased its capabilities by giving it a 300-hp engine and drilling holes in the frame to reduce weight. The SSKL was born. This combination was highly successful for a year but in 1932 the Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 had become more agile and competitive. Hans Nibel was tasked by Mercedes-Benz to create an automobile that was capable of high speeds. He created the 380, a limited-production road car. It was introduced in early 1933 and was powered by an inline eight-cylinder engine based on the 290 models six-cylinder unit. The car could be purchased in various bodies and engine configurations. During its production lifespan, only 150 examples were produced. Mercedes-Benz introduced the next evolution of the 380, the 500K model. The 500K was powered by a powerful M24 inline-eight-cylinder supercharged engine capable of producing 160 horsepower. The 380 was named after the cubic capacity of its engine, 3820 cc. The 500 followed the same tradition, inspired by its 5018 cc power plant. The brakes were power-assisted, the suspension was rear-independent with swing arms, and the transmission had five gears, all of these features were innovative achievements in the automotive community. A bi-product of Nibel’s ingenuity, creativity and technological genius.
The 500K was offered in ten unique body styles including the Special Roadster. The Hermann Ahrens-designed Special Roadster was a limited-production cabriolet that could accommodate two adults in its 209-inch frame. The coachwork was handled by Mercedes-Benz. In total less than 30 examples were produced. The 500K continued the tradition and legacy of the oldest automobile firm in the world, Mercedes-Benz. Its graceful body hid a powerful engine and mechanical innovations that were revolutionary. The vehicle was strong and dependable assembled with superb German craftsmanship. The Special Roadster is considered one of the most beautiful automobiles ever built.
by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2005
COPIED FROM 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K – conceptcarz.com