1929 Mercedes-Benz Model SSK

Shortly after the merger of Daimler and Benz, the S Series emerged, followed closely by the SS. Both of these models were designed by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, and their defining feature was the switchable supercharger ('Kompressor') fitted to the engine. Like all supercharged Mercedes-Benz constructed in the pre-WWII era, the 'on demand' supercharger came into operation when the throttle pedal was fully depressed, which clutched in the Roots-type blower to boost acceleration and raise power output from 140 to 200 brake horsepower. The increase in performance was joined by a distinctively piercing sound that is often described as a banshee's scream. With a lowered chassis and the engine positioned farther back in the chassis, the performance was impressive, and competition versions immediately excelled in endurance racing.

The Model S was introduced as a 6.8-liter tourer in 1927, and at the time, it was the most powerful road-going automobile in the world. Sleek new body styles complimented the low-slung chassis, including those created by Mercedes-Benz's in-house coachbuilder. Famed coachbuilders of the era who created bodies for the Model S include Murphy, Saoutchik, Erdmann & Rossi, Corsica, Castagna, and Glaser.

The Model SS (Super Sport) was launched in 1928 and came equipped with a 7.1-liter supercharged engine. The company hailed it as 28, as 'the car par excellence for the sports driver and the tourist who appreciates a sporting performance far above the average.' Costing the same in chassis form as the Rolls-Royce Phantom II, the SS was built for discerning and wealthy clientele.

The Mercedes-Benz SSK Sport Model

The Mercedes-Benz SSK (Super Sport Short) was the ultimate evolution of the S Series, endowed with the radiator from the S, the engine from the SS, and installed in an 18-inch shorter ('K' for kurz or short) chassis. Like the S and SS, the SSK was built for both the road and the track, with competition engines producing in excess of 300 horsepower.

The 7,069cc single overhead camshaft straight-6 engine was fitted with a supercharger and paired with a four-speed non-synchro manual transmission. It developed 200 to 300 metric horsepower and over 500 lb-ft of torque. Like the S and SS, the supercharger was engaged by fully depressing the throttle pedal, disengaging when the pedal was released. With a top speed of around 120 mph, it was the fastest car of its day.

The wheelbase measured 116 inches and the width was 67 inches. Depending on coachwork, the length was approximately 167 inches, and it stood around 68 inches tall. At the front was a beam axle while the rear used torque tube live axles; the suspension was via semi-elliptical springs all round. Four-wheel drum brakes provided the stopping power.

The SSK holds the distinction of being the last car designed for Mercedes-Benz by Ferdinand Porsche before he left to found his own company. With its short chassis, powerful engine, and lightweight construction, the SSK was a fierce competitor, especially in hill climbs and short races.

How Many Mercedes-Benz SSK Were Produced?
Approximately 146 examples of the Model S and 111 of the Model SS were created. Most were bodied by Mercedes itself. The SSK was even more exclusive, with fewer than 40 examples built during its production lifespan, with approximately half being bodied as Rennwagen (racing cars).

The Count Trossi Roadster SSK
The famous 'Count Trossi' Roadster was a streamlined SSK originally owned by Count Carlo Felice Trossi, an aristocratic Italian sportsman who passionately drove it in competition. Years later, it was acquired by Ralph Lauren, who commissioned its restoration by Paul Russell & Company, returning it to its original appearance and specification. The work was rewarded with a Best of Show award at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 1993.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2023