Special Delivery

Mercedes produced a scant number of these cars in both 500K, and the later 540K, variations. The production of the 540K ran from 1936 to 1938 or ’39, and only about twenty six were built. These massive two seat roadsters were, and still are, the epitome of elegance and extravagance.

This 1938 Mercedes 540K is actually a re-release by IXO of the very first classic car model from their “Museum Series” range. I’m so glad they reproduced this; I was one of those who sat on the fence too long when this was first issued, and by the time I finally decided to pull the trigger, I was not able to find one for sale.

Seems that these high volume mass market models are not so high volume, after all. And they’re a bargain, to boot, modeling, as they do, a car that’s been done by practically everyone and their brother in scales from 1:43 to 1:8, and in mediums from mass market to one-off scratch builts. Not too many cars can lay claim to that honor.

This is a lovely piece, especially for the price. Overall, the shape is very good, and the paint finish receives very high marks - it’s better than the work of some other manufacturers charging double or more. All of the very extensive chrome trim on the body is molded in place as is IXO’s common practice, and the trim’s been topped by applied chrome. It works very well, though not perfectly, since only the tops get chrome, leaving the sides to remain body color. Some of the molded in parts that are raised high off the body surface, like the handles on the rumble seat cover and spare tire cover, are void of any real shape or openings to
grasp, and the separate bumpers almost look as though they are from another, simpler model. They’re okay; they just don’t seem to be on the same level as the rest of the car.

There are some really great detail touches. The grille has either been tamped or decaled with simulated mesh, and the tiny little step plate on the right rear fender has a simulated step pad. Photo etched parts are limited to the wipers and the generic wire wheels IXO uses on many of their Museum range cars. The wheels do have very good center knock off caps, detailed with black paint and the M-B emblem, and the deep maroon interior is fairly well replicated, with good dash detail and most all the important parts there.

It’s a great looking model; you absolutely can’t go wrong with this one.

IXO 1938 Mercedes Benz 540K Spezial Roadster, item MUS001, $32.00. Distributed by Sunrich, www.sunrichtoy.com.

Comments   (0)