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1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K

The Mercedes-Benz 500K's were beautiful, elegant, and exclusive models often outfitted with voluptuous coachwork and sold to wealthy clientele.

1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K photo
Three-Position Drophead Coupe by Corsica
Chassis #: 113622
Engine #: 113622
View info and history
Auction entries : 2
In 1904 Hans Nibel became the chief engineer of Benz. When Daimler-Benz merged, he assisted Dr. Ferdinand Porsche in developing a 6.8-liter supercharged engine that would be outfitted in the 'K', SS, SSK, and SSKL series. The engine created was later enlarged to capacities such as 7.0 and 7.1 liters producing 250 horsepower. The SS was described as the fastest sports car in the world at the time. The SSK was mechanically identical to the SS but was 19 inches shorter and designed for racing. The SSK dominated the racing circuit in the early 1930's. As it began to age, Mercedes-Benz increased its capabilities by giving it a 300-hp engine and drilling holes in the frame to reduce weight. The SSKL was born. This combination was highly successful for a year but in 1932 the Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 had become more agile and competitive.

Hans Nibel was tasked by Mercedes-Benz to create an automobile that was capable of high speeds. He created the 380, a limited-production road car. It was introduced in early 1933 and was powered by an inline eight-cylinder engine based on the 290 models six-cylinder unit. The car could be purchased in various bodies and engine configurations. During its production lifespan, only 150 examples were produced. Mercedes-Benz introduced the next evolution of the 380, the 500K model. The 500K was powered by a powerful M24 inline-eight-cylinder supercharged engine capable of producing 160 horsepower. The 380 was named after the cubic capacity of its engine, 3820 cc. The 500 followed the same tradition, inspired by its 5018 cc power plant.

The brakes were power-assisted, the suspension was rear-independent with swing arms, and the transmission had five gears, all of these features were innovative achievements in the automotive community. A bi-product of Nibel's ingenuity, creativity and technological genius.

1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K photo
Drophead Coupe
Chassis #: 130878
View info and history
Auction entries : 1
The 500K was offered in ten unique body styles including the Special Roadster. The Hermann Ahrens-designed Special Roadster was a limited-production cabriolet that could accommodate two adults in its 209-inch frame. The coachwork was handled by Mercedes-Benz. In total less than 30 examples were produced.

The 500K continued the tradition and legacy of the oldest automobile firm in the world, Mercedes-Benz. Its graceful body hid a powerful engine and mechanical innovations that were revolutionary. The vehicle was strong and dependable assembled with superb German craftsmanship. The Special Roadster is considered one of the most beautiful automobiles ever built.


by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2005

1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Vehicle Profiles

1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K vehicle information
Drophead Coupe

Chassis #: 130857
Engine #: 130857
1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K vehicle information
Special Roadster

Coachwork: Sindelfingen
1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K vehicle information
Cabriolet Tourer A

Coachwork: Sindelfingen
Designer: Hermann Ahrens
Chassis #: 123724
Engine #: 123724
1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K vehicle information
Special Roadster

Coachwork: Sindelfingen
1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K vehicle information
Three-Position Drophead Coupe

Coachwork: Corsica
Chassis #: 113622
Engine #: 113622

Recent Vehicle Additions

Performance and Specification Comparison

500

Specification Comparison by Year

Year
Production
Wheelbase
Engine
Prices
129.50 in.
8 cyl., 329.53 CID., 180.00hp
117.30 in., 129.50 in.
8 cyl., 306.28 CID., 160.00hp
129.50 in.
8 cyl., 306.28 CID., 160.00hp
8 cyl., 329.53 CID., 180.00hp

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