1959 Mercedes-Benz 220SE

The Mercedes-Benz 220 S Saloon was introduced in 1956 and was one of a trio of new models employing unitary construction bodyshells with large, box-section side-members - hence the term 'Pontoon.' The other two unitary vehicles included the 190 and 219. The 220 S Saloon received a traditional coil-sprung independent suspension system with a single-pivot rear swing axle. Short-wheelbase coupé and cabriolet versions of the 220 S soon followed.

The well-equipped touring cars were luxuriously equipped and were priced approximately 70% above the 220 S saloon. The 220 range was updated in 1958 with a fuel-injected version of the 2.2-litre (M127) overhead-camshaft straight six, becoming the 220 SE (The 'E' was in reference to Einspritzung' - injection in German). Horsepower output rose from 106 to 115 bhp and its zero-to-sixty mph acceleration decreased by two seconds. The top speed, however, remained unchanged at around 100 mph. An automatic clutch was available with the column-mounted 4-speed manual transmission.

Although the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE was luxurious and could be ordered with matching leather luggage, it was not available with an automatic transmission, power windows, power steering, or air conditioning.

Production ended in November of 1960 with 1,974 sedans, 830 coupes, and 1,112 cabriolets built. The W128 was succeeded by the 'Fintail' series starting with the W111 line.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2022