The Mercedes-Benz SSK stands as a monumental figure in automotive history, embodying the zenith of pre-war sports car engineering and design. Born from the visionary mind of Ferdinand Porsche, the SSK – an acronym for “Super Sport Kurz,” meaning “Super Sport Short” – was engineered upon a deliberately truncated version of the Mercedes-Benz Model S platform. This strategic shortening and lightening of the chassis, when combined with a colossal 7.1-litre supercharged straight-six engine, forged a vehicle of unparalleled racing prowess.
The competitive debut in July 1928 at the Gabelbach Hill Climb immediately heralded the SSK’s arrival as a force to be reckoned with. Pre-war racing legend Rudolf Caracciola seized victory, shattering the course record and setting the stage for a lineage of on-track triumphs. This inaugural success was not merely a flash in the pan; it was a declaration of the SSK’s inherent speed, agility, and engineering superiority.
The legacy of the Mercedes-Benz SSK extends beyond its groundbreaking design and formidable engine. Each chassis tells a unique story, interwoven with the narratives of passionate owners and thrilling races. Chassis 36040, manufactured in 1929, exemplifies this rich history. Its body, crafted by the skilled artisans at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen coachbuilding facility near Stuttgart, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
Dr. Eugen Winter of Chemnitz, Germany, became the first custodian of chassis 36040. A man of both intellect and adrenaline, Dr. Winter was not only a successful academic but also a dedicated privateer racer. He actively campaigned his Mercedes-Benz SSK in numerous hill climbs, tours, and races, frequently sharing the starting grid with some of the most celebrated drivers of his time. His racing endeavors yielded numerous national-level victories and a notable 5th-place finish in the grueling 1931 Eifelrennen, where he trailed only behind Rudolf Caracciola’s victorious sister SSK and other formidable competitors.
In 1933, Dr. Winter’s life journey took him to the United States, and it is believed that his cherished Mercedes-Benz SSK accompanied him across the Atlantic. The car re-emerged in 1939, under the ownership of Mr. Charles Zumbach of New York City. Mr. Zumbach treasured the Roadster until 1950, after which it passed into the hands of a brewery owner in Connecticut. Its journey continued within the state, finding another keeper until 1955.
The subsequent chapter in the Mercedes-Benz SSK chassis 36040’s history is marked by an extended period of custodianship under Mr. Edward Trager. He became the guardian of the SSK in 1955 and housed it in Chicago until 1979. Later, Mr. Skip Berg of Tiburon, California, acquired the vehicle. It is documented that the body underwent restoration work around 1983, preserving its iconic form.
In December 1994, the Mercedes-Benz SSK found a new home in The Aumann Collection. Described at the time as elegantly finished in black over red leather, it was acquired for 565,000 Deutsche Mark. Further restoration efforts were entrusted to MTK Automobile of Großmaischeid, commencing in February of the following year. It’s noted that the chassis is believed to have been replaced during this period, ensuring the car’s structural integrity for future generations. Embracing its rejuvenated state, the SSK participated in the prestigious 1995 Mille Miglia Storica, a testament to its enduring appeal and race-ready condition.
The provenance of this remarkable Mercedes-Benz SSK is meticulously documented. A comprehensive history file accompanies the vehicle, containing period race programs, vintage photographs, and extensive images chronicling the restoration process and the Mille Miglia Storica participation. Furthermore, FIA Historic Vehicle Identity papers, issued in 1995, add to its authenticity and eligibility for historic events. Notably, the engine block and gearbox bear stamped “Reihenbestellnummer,” signifying their originality as period-correct SSK components.
This Mercedes-Benz 710 SSK Roadster, presented in a striking black over black color scheme, is more than just a classic car; it is a rolling piece of motorsport history. Its extensive competition pedigree and the roster of distinguished drivers it has shared the track with solidify its place among the automotive elite. Today, it stands as an exquisite example, eligible for the most prestigious veteran car tours, rallies, and races worldwide, and an unparalleled addition to any discerning collection. The Mercedes-Benz SSK remains a highly sought-after symbol of a golden era in automotive design and racing, a testament to its enduring allure and historical significance.
