In 1937 Autocar (an independent British magazine) tested a factory stock 540k over the measured mile at 104 mph. Note the use of the word "STOCK". You are citing speed tests of heavily modified cars. You will not be able to cite similar performance numbers for a BONE STOCK American prewar car because they do not exist. Yes, a stock Duesenberg could better that. A V16 Marmon could match it. And a bunch of others if you start hot rodding them but that was not my point. Also, as you may recall, the Mercedes had a sizable lead on the Duesenberg after the first lap at Muroc before the fuel system lost pressure. You can argue that was from overuse of the Supercharger but you cannot deny these were fast cars.