Mercedes-Benz 500K Marlene Replica

Description

In the 1980s, Classic Roadsters Ltd., based in Fargo, North Dakota, introduced a striking tribute to the iconic 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K. The replica, named the “Marlene," was inspired by legendary German actress Marlene Dietrich, who loved the original 500K but found it too large to drive comfortably, so Mercedes-Benz allegedly built a smaller version for her. The Classic Roadsters replica captures the elegance of that automobile while offering modern drivability and affordability compared to the high-priced original. 

The Marlene was generally built on a custom chassis or modified Ford platform and typically powered by a Ford 302 cubic-inch V8 engine, paired with an automatic transmission. Its fiberglass body featured sweeping fenders, external chrome exhaust pipes, and a vintage-style grille — echoing the opulence of the original. The interior was equally luxurious, often trimmed in leather with wood accents and classic instrumentation. 

These cars were often registered as kit cars, sometimes under the year they were completed. While the NHTSA recognizes this one (Serial No. 4CRDBD125LF000511) as a 1990 model, the car is officially titled in Arizona under VIN AZ359118, which dates to November 1936. 

Highlights 

• Classic roadster built by Classic Roadster, Ltd. of Fargo, North Dakota (Serial No. 4CRDBD125LF000511)  

• Finished in Polar White paint over Wine leather-like upholstery 

• Powered by a Ford 302 cu-in V8 with Edelbrock racing heads and Holley fuel injection (rebuilt in 2017) 

• C4 three-speed automatic transmission 

• Wood dash, door trim, and steering wheel 

Features 

• New voltage regulator and alternator installed in December 2024  

• Side exhaust pipes  

• Front-mounted horns 

• Running boards 

• Gold-trimmed Classic Instruments: 120 mph speedometer, 6000 rpm tachometer, and gauges for gas level, water temperature, and oil pressure 

• Dyno Tune Fuel PSI gauge mounted below dash 

• Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo with aux 

• Seat belts 

• Front disc brakes  

• Rack and pinion steering 

• Vintage-style gauges and chrome accents 

• Wire wheels with Vercelli Classic 787 P205/75R15 tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Air conditioning does not function 

Included 

• Spare tire 

• Jack and lug tool 

• Two sets of keys  

Ownership History 

The Arizona seller of this 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Marlene has owned it since August 2016. He rebuilt the engine in 2017.