1937 Mercedes 540K Triumphs at Pebble Beach

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【Summary】A 1937 Mercedes 540K Special Roadster owned by Jim Patterson won best in show at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The car is one of three remaining long-tailed roadsters with a covered spare wheel and has a unique history, having been ordered by King Shah of Afghanistan and stored in the Afghan embassy in Paris during World War II.

FutureCar Staff Aug 23, 2023 6:46 AM PT

1937 Mercedes 540K Triumphs at Pebble Beach

The 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, America's most prestigious car show, crowned a 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster as the best in show.

This particular Special Roadster, owned by Jim Patterson from Louisville, Kentucky, is a rare gem in the world of pre-war motoring. It is one of only three remaining long-tailed roadsters with a covered spare wheel.

Interestingly, this car has an intriguing history. It was originally ordered by King Shah of Afghanistan and was stored in the Afghan embassy in Paris during World War II to ensure its protection.