The 1938 Maybach SW38 Sport Cabriolet by Spohn is a remarkable piece of automotive history, representing an era where Maybach was the pinnacle of prestige in Germany. This rare gem, originally delivered to the famous German circus impresario Carl Krone, has a storied past that includes prominent owners, a unique design by the famed coachbuilder Spohn, and a period of 35 years away from public view.
The Maybach SW38: An Engineering Marvel
In the 1930s, Maybach cars were regarded as the finest vehicles in Germany, outclassing even brands like Mercedes-Benz. The SW38 model was among the most admired, with its six-cylinder engine capable of reaching speeds over 100 mph. Maybach’s expertise in aero engine manufacturing translated to an unparalleled level of engineering precision in their cars. The SW38’s fit and finish, from the engine bay to the handcrafted interiors, exuded luxury and excellence.
Under the hood, the SW38 sported a 3.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 140 horsepower. This powerplant outperformed other high-end vehicles of the time, such as the 5-liter Horch 853A and the 5.4-liter Mercedes-Benz. Paired with a four-speed DSG manual transmission, the SW38 offered a total of eight forward speeds and four reverse, thanks to its innovative preselector gear system.
A Circus Connection
Chassis number 2048, the particular SW38 we highlight, was delivered to Carl Krone, the renowned proprietor of Krone Circus, in May 1938. The car was custom-built by Spohn, a prominent coachbuilder known for their craftsmanship on Maybach chassis. Finished in striking Adriatic Blue, this cabriolet featured a Telefunken radio and seats that could fold flat into a bed—an unusual and innovative feature for the time.
A Journey Across Continents
After World War II, the car changed hands several times. It was owned by the Bavarian State Chancellery, then a Munich dealer, before being sold to a buyer in Stuttgart. Eventually, it was shipped to the United States, where it was acquired by Noel Thompson of New Jersey. Thompson, a passionate collector and member of the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA), maintained the car in excellent condition.
The SW38 later passed to Thomas H. Wilson II of Michigan, a well-known CCCA member. He reupholstered the interior in red leather, while keeping the rest of the car in its original condition. The car appeared in several Michigan Region CCCA events and publications throughout the 1970s. Upon Wilson’s passing in 1982, his widow occasionally displayed the car until it was sold to Rudi Klein in 1989.
Rediscovery and Revival
After being tucked away in the Klein Collection for decades, this Maybach SW38 has resurfaced. While its 4.2-liter engine was replaced by Maybach during the 1950s as part of a factory upgrade, the car retains much of its original Adriatic Blue finish and boasts an appealing patina. Unique features like Notek headlights and Krone’s monogram etched into the beltline moldings add to its allure.
With its illustrious history, elegant design, and remarkable preservation, this 1938 Maybach SW38 Sport Cabriolet is poised to reclaim its status as one of the finest examples of Maybach’s golden era.
Lot 282: The Junkyard – The Rudi Klein Collection
1938 Maybach SW38 Sport Cabriolet by Spohn
$150,000 – $200,000 USD | Offered Without Reserve
United States | Los Angeles, California
Source: rmsothebys.com
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