Star Torque Issue 244 Winter 2016

Technical data:
Cylinders:
8/in-line
Displacement: 5401 cc
Output:
Top speed:
85 kW (115 hp),
with supercharger
132 kW (180 hp)
Drag coefficient: 0.36
185 km/h
The longer transmission ratio
identified on the rear axle, at i =
2.90 (rather than i = 3.08, as for the
standard-production 540 K models)
prevents the engine from over revving
at the higher top speeds made possible
by the optimised aerodynamics.
On the trail of evidence:
The chassis frame tells the story:
traces of aluminium provide clues
about the bodywork, residual colour
about the silver paintwork, drill
holes about the attachment of the full
underbody panelling, indications of
wear about the testing programme at
Dunlop.
Thorough research in the archives
produced some important findings:
following comparison with the entry
in the commission book, the numbers
found on the frame confirmed the
vehicle’s authenticity. Further
documents revealed the use of silverbronze
paintwork, grey interior
appointments and walnut wood trim.
An important basis for the restoration
was provided by the photos, quotation
drawings and - the biggest find of all -
a historical description of the surface
of the outer shell. This drawing,
produced in February 1938, includes
certain important details that were
found on the original frame.
restoration & reconstruction:
Time frame: early 2012 to mid-2014
(approx. two and a half years).
Restoration and reconstruction
to the original condition using
contemporary craft skills, methods
and materials.
The original line drawing of 1938 was
transposed in meticulous detail to a
3D surface model, using sophisticated
CAD design techniques, to provide
the basis for production drawings,
auxiliary tools and templates.
Extreme precision in the preparation
and implementation of every detail
and each stage of the work.
Original components were preserved
and re-used - and still show the marks
of time.
Careful craftsmanship was involved
at every stage. Rebuilding the body
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