Elegance Showcase

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【Summary】A 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster won Best of Show at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. It is one of only three Long-Tail Special Roadsters with a covered spare that still exist worldwide. The car was purchased by its current owner in 2022 and had never been separated from its drivetrain or restored. The car is known for its advanced engineering and Streamline Moderne styling.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 5:00 PM 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, was recognized for its rarity and pristine condition. Patterson, speaking on the judges' stand, mentioned that the vehicle had never been separated from its drivetrain, never restored, and had only 13,000 miles on it.

The winning car, a 1937 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, featuring a high-power supercharged straight-eight, and Streamline Moderne styling make it a true icon of its era.

Patterson acquired the car in early 2022 from an RM Sotheby's auction. While the vehicle was complete, Patterson's team still put in the effort to perfect it. "We redid everything about it," he explained, "but we didn't have to order or make any parts."

The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance tends to favor uniquely designed pinnacle iterations of the Classic era between the World Wars. This car, with its exceptional design and historical significance, is a perfect fit for the concours. Ken Gross, a veteran Pebble Beach judge and automotive author, expressed his admiration for the winning vehicle, stating, "Historic elegance prevails."

Regardless of the reasoning behind this particular win, the passion and enthusiasm of car enthusiasts continue to make events like Pebble Beach a success. The celebration of these rolling sculptures is a testament to the enduring love for owning, maintaining, showing, and appreciating these exceptional automobiles. Whether it's a vintage classic or a more modern vehicle, the beauty and artistry of these cars will always captivate us.