Mercedes-Benz SSK Wiederaufbau 1928 for sale

The Mercedes Benz of the legendary SSK (Super Sport Kurz) model has been and remains one of the most prestigious models ever built by the brand. The inline six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 7,065 cm³ – designed by Ferdinand Porsche – delivered between 140 and 180 hp depending on the version, with the activation of the Roots supercharger even from 200 to 250 hp. Speeds around 200 km/h were reserved for a few (racing) sports cars of the time. Thus, the SSK (and SSKL) achieved international victories with drivers like Rudolf Caracciola and Manfred von Brauchitsch, such as at the Mille Miglia in 1931 and in numerous hill climbs. This specimen is a high-quality and faithful "restoration" of an SSK, carried out in 2003 by a well-known specialist in Germany through the reuse of original parts. Already in 1994, the restoration specialist had acquired the specimen as a case of significant damage in the United States, where it had been in a collection since 1978. The front and central cross members of the chassis are original. Thanks to the chassis number stamped on the central cross member, this car has retained its identity. The early history of this chassis number is also documented in detail. During the 2003 restoration, numerous components (including chassis cross members, spring supports, engine mounts, radiator supports, drive shaft, coupling rods, front axle) of the existing chassis were carefully restored and reused, while other parts such as the longitudinal beams were made new. All chassis components such as brakes, rear axle, wheels, and steering were manufactured and installed according to the appropriate specifications. The existing body and engine were no longer usable. The body was made according to the typical specifications of the SSK on a new wooden chassis with all details faithful to the original. The same applies to the interior and dashboard. The engine block is, according to Mercedes Benz, an original and late unit from a 1929 Mercedes 630 K model. This engine block already had, as in the later S/SS/SSK models, the mounting flange for a dual carburetor system cast into the engine. Thanks to its "wet" sleeve cylinders, it was predestined to be bored from 6.3 liters to 7.1 liters (as in the SSK). This size leads to impressive performance and power. The cylinder head is a faithful reproduction. All restoration work is documented in a photo documentation. After completion, the SSK was intensively used by its owner for almost 20 years and participated in numerous driving events and was presented at concours events. For this purpose, a FIVA pass and a "Historical Technical Passport" were created by the DMSB. Participations include, among others, the Mercedes Benz Classic Days 2003 in Salzburg, the Eifel-Klassik (Oldtimer Grand-Prix Nürburgring) 2003, the Mille Miglia 2004, the Taubensuhlrennen 2004, the Heidelberg Historic 2004, the Ländle Classic 2004, the Mercedes Benz Classic Days at Brooklands 2008, and numerous other classic events. These activities are extensively documented with photos, participant lists, and articles. After the owner's death, the SSK was sold in early 2023 through EBERHARD THIESEN to a collector and Mercedes enthusiast in Berlin, who also participated in various events with this racing vehicle. Thus, a rare opportunity arises to acquire a high-quality and faithful recreation of one of the rarest and most iconic historic racing cars in automotive history. The car impresses with its extreme performance and expressed power and is, despite its sleek racing body, an imposing sight. This specimen has always been actively driven since its reconstruction and is.