Elegance Showcase

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【Summary】A 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster won Best of Show at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The car, owned by collector Jim Patterson, is one of only three of its kind in the world. It was purchased in 2022 and has never been restored, making it a rare find. The Concours d'Elegance continues to showcase classic era cars, and this win reinforces the trend.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 9:52 AM PT

A 1937 Mercedes-Benz Special Roadster took home the prestigious Best of Show prize at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The car, owned by collector Jim Patterson of Louisville, Kentucky, and Palm Beach, Florida, stood out for its rarity and pristine condition. According to Patterson, the vehicle had never been separated from its drivetrain, never restored, and had only 13,000 miles on it.

This particular Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster is one of only three Long-Tail Special Roadsters with a covered spare that still exist worldwide. Its advanced engineering, highlighted by the high-power supercharged straight-eight engine, makes it an icon of automotive history. The car's Streamline Moderne styling further adds to its allure, representing the era it hails from.

Patterson acquired the car in early 2022 through an RM Sotheby's auction. While the vehicle was complete, Patterson's team put in the effort to make it perfect. They meticulously worked on every aspect of the car, ensuring that it was in pristine condition. Interestingly, no parts needed to be ordered or made during the restoration process.

The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is known for awarding uniquely designed pinnacle iterations of the Classic era between the World Wars. This Mercedes-Benz Special Roadster perfectly fits the criteria, showcasing the elegance and style of that time period. The dominance of such cars, especially coachbuilt ones with an imminent menace, reflects the years leading up to the Second World War.

Ken Gross, a veteran Pebble Beach judge and automotive author, expressed his admiration for the winning vehicle, stating that it was a breathtaking example of historic elegance. Despite the ongoing debate about whether the concours should lean towards postwar cars, this year's competition reaffirmed the timeless appeal of Classic era automobiles.

Regardless of the reasoning behind this particular car's victory, it is heartening to see the passion and enthusiasm that people have for owning, maintaining, and showcasing these exceptional vehicles. Pebble Beach continues to draw crowds who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of these rolling sculptures. And who knows, maybe one day a more unconventional vehicle will take home the Best of Show title, and that will be cause for celebration as well.