This 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster has a one-off body by the Mayfair Carriage Co.

It has a folding windshield, and the extensive use of louvers and skirted rear fenders lend an air of elegance to the design.

The coachwork is much lighter than the more closed bodies traditionally fitted to these chassis, yielding sparkling performance - particularly when the blower is engaged.

It was ordered with a set-back radiator, meant for open cars and factory roadsters in particular.

The factory referred to this variation as "Fahrgestell mit zuruckgesetztem Motor" (chassis with setback motor).

Although externally identifiable by the relative position of the radiator over the front axle, in fact, the radiator and entire drivetrain were set back 185 mm.

This gave the car a completely different air, with an opportunity for a more aggressive front end and an overall longer, lower appearance.

Mercedes-Benz chassis records indicate that this car was shipped on October 7, 1936, to the f...