Mercedes-Benz Smuggled out of Germany During World War Two Sold for $6.6m

Ronke Kehinde/

A rare classic car which was hidden from the Nazis and later smuggled out of the Soviet Union has sold for $6.6 million

The 1939 Mercedes Benz 540 K Special Roadster was stashed away by its owner at the outbreak of World War Two.

It was found in Soviet-controlled East Berlin in 1949 and eventually made its way to Russia.

The Mercedes was purchased in 1964 by a translator living in Moscow, who smuggled it out three years later by driving it over the border into Sweden.

The car was then sold to a US collector in California.

The Mercedes, which boasts a 5.4litre engine, has now sold for $6.6 million (£5.3 million) at an auction in Arizona, US.

A spokesman for auctioneers, RM Sotheby’s, said: “The 540 K Special Roadster is regarded by many as the high point of the classic era among German automobiles.

“It reflected the restless pursuit of perfection by Mercedes-Benz’s engineers, technicians, craftsmen, and coachbuilders.

“It is among the most instantly recognisable, valuable, and desirable of all automobiles built during the classic era, and acquiring one is an instant mark of discerning taste and prestige for any collector.

“It has a wonderful story and is an excellent restoration.

“We are delighted with the price it achieved.”

0