During the 1970s and ’80s, a throng of companies emerged producing retrospectively styled cars, sometimes known as “Neoclassics.” The Phillips Motorcar Company of Pompano Beach, Florida, was one of those companies, and between 1980 and 1983, it built the Berlina. Using a new Corvette as the starting point, Phillips removed the body and replaced it with a fiberglass body styled in the spirit of the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K. It had all the looks of the 540K, including the sloping fenders and trunk, large grille with radiator mascot, chrome stripe and bumpers, floating headlights and innumerable other details to mimic the classic Mercedes- Benz. Even the hood was treated to a center-mounted hinge, allowing engine access from the left or right just like the 540K. But, the beauty of the Berlina was more than just skin deep—while it looked fabulous, it offered people the reliability, comfort, amenities, performance and serviceability of a Corvette. All things told, they were not for the financially faint of heart. They cost about $65,000, actually a little bit more than a contemporary Ferrari 308 yet still less pricey than an original 540K. Only about 200 were sold, making it a very rare, unique collector’s car. This 1982 Berlina has covered just 35,202 miles, and it presents beautifully with its bright red paint and beige interior. Powered by the L48 Corvette 5.7L V-8 engine and automatic transmission, the Berlina is equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, power windows, power steering, power brakes and AM/FM stereo system, to name but a few. The Corvette interior looks exquisite, the beige leather upholstery and door panels, carpeting and dashboard all appearing ready for brochure photography. Custom touches include a wood center stack, custom steering wheel centerpiece and Berlina emblem on the doors. To be sold with service records, factory brochures and prior registrations, finding exceptionally well- kept Neoclassics is difficult at best. This one, with the low miles and outstanding appearance, is likely a bird in the hand.
