The 540K incorporates independent suspension at all four
corners, using a coil-sprung swing axle at the rear. Large, hydrau-
lically assisted drum brakes are another advanced feature for the
period. At more than 5,000 pounds, it is not a sports car, but with
its sophisticated suspension and powerful engine, it is a comfort-
able, capable car.
What sets this car apart is its body. The 540K chassis was fitted
with a variety of bodies, from limousines to cabriolets to coupes.
The Special Roadster body was designed by Hermann-Ahrens,
and the body was built by Mercedes-Benz’s in-house coachbuilder,
Karosserie Sindelfingen.
This 17-foot-long two-seater (leaving aside a rumble seat hidden
in the back) is incredibly well proportioned. The upright, triangular
grille announces a long, straight hood, leading to a split and laid-
back windshield. Behind the cockpit, the car slopes away at just the
right degree, joining the rear fenders as they complete their sweep
up from behind the doors.
Only 26 Special Roadsters were built, and only by special order.
One such order was placed by the Prussian von Krieger family, an
aristocratic clan whose crest adorns the driver’s door of the car to
this day. Henning von Kreiger was the first owner, followed by his
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