This is the 1930/1934 Mercedes-Benz 710 SSK ‘Count Trossi’ Roadster, a one-of-a-kind car that exudes sophistication and gracefulness ubiquitously. Although around 30-40 Mercedes-Benz SSK models were produced, none other share the same appearance as the one-off Count Trossi. The story of this car begins in the year 1928, when Austrian-German automotive engineer, Ferdinand Porsche, who is best known for being the founder of Porsche, would design his last ever automobile before moving on from Mercedes-Benz, known as the SSK. The SSK (Super Sport Kurz) was produced from 1928-1932 with just about 40 produced worldwide, and was driven to victory in numerous races. This car started its life as a bare chassis in 1930 which was shipped to Japan, and then promptly returned back to the factory, as it went unsold. From here, this example was sold to a Mercedes-Benz dealer in Italy, Carlo Saporiti. At this point, 36038 was fitted with a Carrozzeria Touring-built two-seat Spyder-style body and was raced sporadically from 1930 until 1933. In June of 1933, chassis 36038 was purchased by Count Carlo Felice Trossi, who certainly had different plans in mind for the body styling. In 1932, Trossi sketched some ideas on paper, however, the actual designer of the car itself remains to be anonymous. Some reports claim Trossi himself was the designer, others claim a coachbuilder named Willy White was responsible. Nonetheless, the Trossi was completed with a design that will likely never be replicated ever again, with massive swooping lines, and a beautiful teardrop profile. Currently, 36038 is owned by Ralph Lauren after having gone through a comprehensive restoration process from Paul Russel and Company.
How many made? Around 40 SSKs were built. This car is a 1 of 1. Only 5 SSKs total are believed to survive.
Engine: supercharged 7,069 cc (7.1 L) SOHC I6 - 200–300 metric horsepower
Debut: July 29th, 1928 hillclimb at Gabelbach, Germany (SSK). This car was completed by 1934.
Top Speed: around 115 MPH
0-60: N/A
Photo Credit: @scottsdale_carspotting
Research: @rarecarsonly