1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Drophead Coupe

The Lancefield Coachworks Ltd. of Queen's Park, London built six cars with this design and this is the only Mercedes-Benz 540 K. The rear deck is unlocked by means of a T-handle screw, and under manual power, the top raises vertically, then slides to the rear and swings away, similar to that of a modern Porsche Speedster. With the top revealed, it can then be unfurled over the bows into an erect position. Chrome channels direct the rear quarters into position, and thumb screws secure the leading edge to the top of the windshield.

Mr. Grey-Cheape ordered this right-hand-drive 540 K in February of 1938, was given Lanfield coachwork and finished in two-tone livery. It was advertised for sale in May 1947 and is believed to have been sold to London before coming to the United States in the early 1960s. From at least 1961 until the early 1980s it was in the custodianship of John H. Possehl of Norristown, Pennsylvania. It was later owned by Mark J. Smith and had it resprayed in green. Shortly after it was offered for sale in 1988 it entered the current owner's care.

During the late 1980s or early 1990s, the car was given its current deep maroon and black exterior with a maroon leather interior. It retains its original factory engine, original firewall Typenschild, and order number plate bearing Kommission number 269503.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2022