Germany vs Germany — 1938 vs 1936
| 853A Erdmann & Rossi Sport Cabriolet | 540K Special Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 224 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,944 cc | 5,401 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 16.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 87 mph | 106 mph |
| Weight | 4,630 lbs | 5,071 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,240 mm | 3,290 mm |
| Length | 5,200 mm | 5,290 mm |
| Units Produced | 35 | 419 |
| Original MSRP | — | $14,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,500,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1938 Horch 853A Erdmann & Rossi Sport Cabriolet excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster stands out for more power, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Luxury Grand Tourer enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1938 Horch 853A Erdmann & Rossi Sport Cabriolet and 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster is one for the ages. These Pre-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 120 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Horch 853A uses a Inline-8 OHV displacing 4,944 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 540K relies on a Inline-8 Supercharged with 5,401 cc. The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster claims a higher top speed at 106 mph compared to 87 mph. The Horch 853A carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 35 units built, the 1938 Horch 853A Erdmann & Rossi Sport Cabriolet is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 540K's 419 examples. On the collector market, the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1938 Horch 853A Erdmann & Rossi Sport Cabriolet, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.