Released at the Paris Motor Show in 1936, the 540K became a flagship Mercedes-Benz and was built by special order only. It followed the eight cylinder 500K and helped maintain Mercedes-Benz as a prestige marque that produced the fastest production automobiles in the world. Each car was individually built to customer’s needs and Mercedes-Benz prepared a range of available bodies. Among these were the spectacular Spezial Roadsters built by Mercedes-Benz’s own Karrosserie Sindelfingen. These flowing two-seaters were one of the most striking prewar designs, easily distinguished by their prominent hood, sweeping fenders, recessed grill, external exhaust pipes, raked windscreen and extreme length. They are arguably the most beautiful German supercars and have a commanding presence.