MERCEDES-BENZ 540K CABRIOLET A

Sold/number built 1936-’39/83

Construction pressed-steel box-section chassis, wooden body frame, steel panels

Engine iron monobloc straight-eight, with single updraught carburettor and switchable Roots-type supercharger

Max power 178bhp @ 3400rpm (113bhp without supercharger)

Max torque 318lb ft @ 2200rpm

Transmission four-speed manual, no synchromesh on first, RWD Suspension independent, at front by wishbones, coil springs rear swing axles, trailing arms, twin coil springs each side; hydraulic dampers f/r

Steering worm and nut

Brakes drums, with servo

Length 17ft 21/2 in (5245mm)

Width 6ft 3in (1905mm)

Height 5ft 5in (1650mm)

Wheelbase 10ft 9in (3290mm)

Weight 5720lb (2595kg)

0-60mph 16.4 secs

Top speed 111mph Mpg 8.1

Price new RM22,000 (1936)

Price now £2-2.5m