1958 Mercedes-Benz 220S Convertible

The Mercedes-Benz 220a, the predecessor to the 220S, was introduced in 1954. Many consider the 220a to be the first modern Mercedes-Benz and represented the company's new generation of unit-body constructed cars, and was later given the nickname, the 'Ponton', in reference to its pontoon-style front fenders. They were built on a 6.75-inch longer wheelbase than its predecessor and powered by a 2.2-liter, six-cylinder engine. In September of 1955, servo-assisted brakes became standard.

In August of 1957, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 220 S. The engine came with two Solex downdraft carburetors and its horsepower was increased to 106. A Hydrak hydraulically operated clutch also became available as an extra-cost option. They were produced in limited numbers and hand-finished at Sindelfingen to the highest standards. They were capable of reaching speeds of 100 mph and offered equally impressive levels of quality and luxury. The bodies were mass-produced, they were finished by craftsmen skilled in the art of coachbuilding. Thus, the cabriolets cost nearly 75 percent more than their saloon equivalents when new.

This particular example was purchased by the current owner in the late 1990s. It is believed to have had just three owners from new, and the first of these was from Texas. It is finished in two-tone blue and cream and came equipped with a factory radio, an optional rear jump seat, and a Hydrak transmission.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2014