1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K

Sold for $1,132,500 at 2022 RM Sothebys : Monterey.
This third series 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Cabriolet A by Sindelfingen was ordered new and devoid of side-mounted spares. The order was placed by the British Mercedes-Benz agency on behalf of a Mr. Manson, and registered as FLC 217. It is believed that the car remained in England throughout World War II, and was acquired in 1951 by a multiple award-winning British actor, filmmaker, and writer named Peter Ustinov who kept it until 1953. Around this time, the car was advertised for sale by dealers Simmons of Mayfair in Motor Sport magazine.

The Mercedes was acquired from Simmons by Ralph Buckley of Absecon, New Jersey in July of 1953. From Mr. Buckley, the Cabriolet A traveled to California and into the custodianship of John Bond. After many years in his care, the car was later purchased by Jim Wilson of Hermosa Beach, who then began a five-year mechanical and cosmetic restoration. Upon completion, the car was exhibited at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, winning 3rd in Class. Richard Wesselink purchased the Mercedes several years later (along with a second 540 K), who passed both to Manfredo Lippmann of Guatemala.

The car currently wears the Wilson restoration which had been finished in a deep claret paint scheme with a tan leather interior. It has original, late-style skirting of the front fenders which have been lightly modified to have more of a subtle curve and house side mounted spares. The original body number suffix '205' is stamped into the hood hinge, and the original chassis and engine number stampings are still present as well.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2022