1992 Mercedes-Benz 500K Replica

Description

If your tastes run towards the extravagant and you like being the center of attention wherever you go, there aren't many cars better suited to the job than this 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500K replica. Not only does it do a decent job of replicating one of history's greatest cars, but it works rather well as a real-world machine, too.

The long, sweeping fenders are a big part of the 500K look and it's pretty neatly replicated here, right down to the neatly integrated running boards and gently sloping deck lid. The proportions are just about right and though this one is rendered in fiberglass, there's no denying the incredible look. In a sea of Mercedes SL roadsters and Porsche 911 cabriolets, this one will definitely stand out. The white finish is a good choice, displaying a classic elegance without being excessive; it simply lets the bodywork speak for itself. Fit and finish are excellent, with suicide-style doors that swing on well-oiled hinges, a long tapering hood, and the raked windshield, and it feels quite solid going down the road. The paint looks great, too, with a deep shine and a lot of sanding and buffing ahead of time to make sure everything was straight and smooth enough for the ultimate gloss. And yes, as with any car of the 1930s, even an ersatz one, chrome is a pretty big deal, so things like the radiator, bumpers, and V-shaped grille sparkle like jewelry against the creamy white finish.

The tan leather interior is all about modern luxury and not even an original 500K can match this car's features. The wide leather bench seat is supple and comfortable and has a proper old fashioned look. There's a custom-made dash with handsome white-faced gauges and a custom-made wood panel underneath for the A/C system and AM/FM/cassette stereo. You also get power windows and locks, a tilt steering column with a wood-rimmed wheel, and deep, plush carpets that feel expensive through the soles of your shoes. A center-mounted shifter for the automatic transmission lends a sporting feel and it's easy to envision yourself driving something much older when you look down that long hood. Overhead there's a tan convertible top that stows under a fiberglass hatch, so it remains out of sight when it's down. And yes, there's even a decent trunk that's deep enough to handle overnight bags for two.

Reliable Chevrolet power means you never have to think twice about hitting the road. The 350 cubic inch V8 provides smooth competence and with just 1066 miles on the build. A four-barrel carburetor provides plenty of power and while the side pipes are not functional, it does have a nice V8 burble from the single exhaust pipe out back. The engine bay is purely functional and hasn't been dressed up, because, after all, the exterior really should be the star of the show. Nevertheless, the underside is quite clean and well-built, offering power steering and brakes, as well as a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and 10-bolt rear end. The ride is incomparable thanks to that long wheelbase and the rather tall 215/75/15 Goodyear whitewall radials.

An unusual and highly visible luxury convertible, this 500K replica makes it easy to enjoy the finer things in life. Call today!