1929 Mercedes-Benz Model SS Roadster

In mid-1928 a new version of the Mercedes-Benz S was produced, designated as the SS or Super Sport. Intended as a grand tourer, the SS used the 6-cylinder engine from the Type 630, but it was bored out to 7.1 liters, providing an additional 40 horsepower. With the supercharger engaged, the SS could produce 200 horsepower. The car was so powerful that it easily beat almost all the cars of its era and could achieve a top speed well in excess of 118 mph.

The 700SS and 710SS are the successors of the 400, 630 and 680 S models with their 6-cylinder engines and full throttle-activated supercharger. Although intended for road use, the 700 SS and 710 SS are nearly identical to the SSK and SSKL racers. Their supercharged engines were capable of producing around 225 horsepower, which made them well suited to handle the drivers driving demands on the road or the track. Many of the cars were constructed of aluminum to help reduce the overall weight. The vehicle was powered by a variety of engines, including the 7.1-liter supercharged engine that produced 225 horsepower as in this car and later 250 horsepower.

This SS was originally delivered new to Northern Ireland just in time for Rudolf Caracciola to contest the 1929 Ulster Tourist Trophy race held on the Ards road circuit in Ireland. This race is also where Caracciola would be given the name Regenmeister 'Rain Master' due to the heavy rains. Caracciola went on to win that race and then later drove this car in the 1930 Irish Grand Prix, the 1931 German Grand Prix, and the 1931 Mille Miglia. Frances Curzon, the fifth Earl of Howe, was so impressed that he purchased the car on the spot and then commissioned Barker to create a doorless four-seater body with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame. The car was heavily used and raced in period, earning at least five place finishes.

This car retains all of the original components and drivetrain and is in very original condition.