The Mercedes 220 S was in production from 1956 to 1959, replacing the similar 220 a. The cars were considered small, German-built luxury sedans, coupes, and convertibles powered by an inline-6 engine. This 1958 edition was a one-owner car until 2021 and doesn’t run, though it did as recently as 2016. In its younger days, it toured all through Europe before coming to the U.S. Located now in Los Altos, California, this “saloon” is available here on craigslist for $6,999. Another fine tip from Toddk!
Mercedes-Benz chassis W180 served as the host to both the 220 a and 220 S. Together, they had a production run of six years with total assemblies of 84,645 automobiles (70% were the 220 S). These cars earned the nickname “Ponton” because of their unibody construction and exterior styling. The 220 a and 220 S both used a 2.2-liter inline-6, but the latter produced horsepower of up to 105 with twin carburetors.
The seller acquired this vehicle from the original purchaser (or his/her family) two years ago. We’re told it was garaged for most of its life and the general condition of the auto suggests that’s correct. It comes with all sorts of documentation that should track to its 58,000 miles of use. The listing indicates a 4-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, but both of these seem unlikely.
We’re told this machine was last operational about seven years ago. It may start with a little coaxing, perhaps relating to the fuel delivery system (old gas). Given the various tags attached to the front grille, this car saw much of Europe before its original owner brought it Stateside. Though we’re not treated to any interior or engine compartment pics, this looks like a valid project car to build upon.
Grandad had the first 220s in the KC area. Brought it back from Germany. White with a 4sp on the column. Nobody knew how to work on it.
MAN!!! I would love to own this classic….
The father of good friends from my childhood had one of these Potons. It was the classiest and most expensive car in our neighbourhood. The dad was a bit of a cheap charlie. He use to make us kids push the car out of its parking space and then continuing to push until it slowly slowly gathered speed on the estate’s incline. Only once he had bumped started the engine were we allowed to jump into the seats and get our lift to school. Good memories!
I would rather pay for a new battery than replace a clutch.
My main concern would be for parts availability. MB used to change specs for parts during a model year.
I had a 1965 fin tail and found out that a lot of Volvo parts fit.
This engine will be points, condenser, carburettor. In other words very simple to fix for most of the daily problems.
I wish I could buy it.
Tons of these 220S sedans were made, so parts are no problem. Yes, it’s definitely a six. Twenty years ago, I restored a much rarer fuel-injected 220SE sedan, and it was very expensive (lots of interior wood, leather, etc.). Yet it was a great driver with a distinctive, elegant manner. As usual, rust is the key factor, but since this car has lived in California, you may luck out. At this price, and if it has no serious rust, I’d go for it.
I bought one of these in 2005 when I lived in San Diego. Very well built and comfy to drive. Handling and ride improved 100 % when I put on Bilstein shocks.
Had to sell it when I moved to SW Oregon; couldn’t find anyone qualified to work on it.
A college buddy had a ’62 220 M-B with the 4 speed on the column. It was a nice car. I wanted to buy it but was #2 in line and #1 got it. Oh well.
Nice solid car. They’re easy to work on. 6 cyl. Is indestructible. I’d repaint it black or silver.