1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK "Count Trossi"
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The Mercedes-Benz SSK "Count Trossi" 1930 is an iconic example of automotive engineering and style. Built in the early 1930s, this model was designed with the sole purpose of winning races, which it did quite successfully. The car was named after Count Carlo Felice Trossi, a nobleman and racing driver who piloted it to several victories.
The SSK boasted a 7-liter supercharged inline-six engine, which produced an impressive 300 horsepower. The engine was coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, allowing the driver to shift gears smoothly and efficiently. The car was capable of reaching speeds of over 120 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest automobiles of its time.
One of the most striking features of the SSK was its design. The car's long hood and sleek lines gave it a sense of speed and agility. The body was constructed entirely of aluminum, making it lightweight and durable. The car's suspension was also state-of-the-art for its time, featuring double wishbones and coil springs in the front and a live axle with quarter-elliptic leaf springs in the rear. This setup provided both stability and agility, allowing the driver to navigate tight corners with ease.
Inside the cabin, the SSK was surprisingly comfortable, with ample space for the driver and a passenger. The car boasted a wooden dashboard with customizable gauges, providing the driver with all the information needed to pilot the vehicle. The seats were covered in high-quality leather, providing a luxurious feel to the driving experience.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz SSK "Count Trossi" 1930 was a masterpiece of automotive engineering. Its technical specifications, including the powerful engine, advanced suspension, and lightweight aluminum body, made it a dominant force on the racetrack. Its design, both inside and out, was both beautiful and functional, providing both speed and comfort to the driver. This car is a true testament to the skill and ingenuity of the engineers and designers at Mercedes-Benz.
Milestones
- The Mercedes-Benz SSK was introduced in 1928 as a sports car for racing purposes. - The "Count Trossi" iteration of the SSK was commissioned by Count Carlo Felice Trossi, an Italian race car driver and automobile enthusiast. - The "Count Trossi" SSK was designed by Fritz Nallinger and built by Mercedes-Benz's racing division, overseen by Rudolf Uhlenhaut. - The car was equipped with a modified supercharged 7.1-liter six-cylinder engine capable of producing 300 horsepower. - The car's body was designed by the coachbuilder Carrozzeria Touring and featured a distinctive teardrop shape with unique details such as the elongated hood and curvaceous fenders. - The "Count Trossi" SSK made its racing debut in the 1930 Mille Miglia, where it finished in 2nd place overall. - The car also competed in the 1930 Targa Florio, where it finished in 3rd place. - In later years, the "Count Trossi" SSK was owned by notable collectors such as Briggs Cunningham and Ralph Lauren.Technical
• The Mercedes-Benz SSK "Count Trossi" is a sports car produced in Germany in 1930.• It was designed by Ferdinand Porsche and powered by a 7-liter inline-six engine.
• The engine produced 300 horsepower and had a top speed of 120 mph.
• The car featured an aerodynamic body designed by Count Carlo Felice Trossi, which included a tapered torpedo-like shape and a long, pointed tail.
• The chassis was made from lightweight aluminum and the suspension consisted of semi-elliptical springs on both the front and rear axles.
• The brakes were hydraulic and the gearbox had four speeds.
• The car had a wheelbase of 118 inches and weighed about 2,800 lbs.
• The interior was spartan, with a single bucket seat and a large steering wheel.
• Only four SSK "Count Trossi" models were ever built, making it a rare and highly sought-after collector's item.
• One of these cars was sold at auction in 2017 for a record-breaking $7.4 million.
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