1960 Mercedes-Benz 220 Series Coupe

In 1956, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 220S saloon. It was one of a trio of new model that featured unitary construction bodyshells with large, box-section side-members (thus the term 'Pontoon') with the other models being the 190 and 219. At all four corners were coil-sprung independent suspension setup and newly developed single-pivot rear swing axle. Short-wheelbase coupe and cabriolet versions of the 220S soon followed.

The 220 range was updated in 1958 with a fuel-injected version of the 2.2-liter overhead-camshaft six, evolving into the 220SE. Power increased from 106 to 115 bhp. When production ceased in November of 1960, fewer than 2,000 220SE Coupe and Cabriolet model had been produced.

This 220 SE Convertible is an original California black plate car and was delivered new to Los Angeles Mercedes dealers R.G. Lewis & Co. Inc. of Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. The original purchase price was $8,668 which included it fuel-injection motor, a Becker Mexico radio, white wall tires, and two reclining seats with one having a head rest. The buyer was a doctor who kept the car for most of its life. In recent years, the car has been treated to a cosmetic refurbishment which included a bare metal re-spray to its original color of Silver Gray Metallic, refurbishment of the trim pieces, re-plating of the brightwork, all rubbers replaced, and the wood trim cappings re-finished. The mechanical components were exampled and overhauled when necessary.

In 2011, this vehicle was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge auction presented by Bonhams. It was estimated to sell for $190,000 - $220,000 but its reserve was not met and the car would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2011