Germany vs West Germany — 1936 vs 1949
| 540K Special Roadster | 170 S W136 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 380 lb-ft | 80 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,401 cc | 1,767 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 73 mph |
| Weight | 5,071 lbs | 2,646 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,290 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,290 mm | 4,430 mm |
| Units Produced | 419 | 38,262 |
| Original MSRP | $14,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster makes a stronger case on paper with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. However, the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster for outright capability, or the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster with the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 52 hp, a 128-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 540K uses a Inline-8 Supercharged displacing 5,401 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 170 S relies on a Inline-4 SV (Side-Valve) with 1,767 cc. The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster claims a higher top speed at 106 mph compared to 73 mph. The Mercedes-Benz 170 S carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2425 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 419 units built, the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 170 S's 38,262 examples. On the collector market, the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.