Lot 368: Mercedes-Benz 220S Cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz reintroduced six-cylinder models to its range in 1951 with the 220 and 300 types, both of which were shown at the Frankfurt Show in the spring of that year. Both featured single overhead camshaft engines, with the valves set across the head, rather than in line, and actuated by rockers. The 220 was powered by a 2,195cc engine which in standard form produced 80bhp at 4,600rpm. A separate chassis was retained for these models, which were replaced in 1956 by a new range featuring unitary construction �ponton� bodyshells.
In this new form the 220S saloon debuted at the 1956 Frankfurt Auto Show together with the 190 and 219. Like the contemporary 180, the new trio featured unitary construction of the chassis/body, independent suspension all round and drum brakes. Powered by an up-rated (100bhp) version of the existing 2,195cc overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine, the 220S was good for a top speed of around 100mph. A shorter wheelbase was adopted for the Cabriolet model that appeared in May 1956 and also for the Coup� introduced the following year when the Hydrak semi-automatic transmission become available as an option. The Sindelfingen factory coachwork was attractive, particularly in drophead form, as with this example. Apart from a power increase to 106bhp in 1957, the 220S changed little in the course of its comparatively short life, production ceasing in October 1959. Fewer than 3,500 Coup�s and Cabriolets were built in that time and today these elegant and exclusive limited edition models are highly prized.
This left-hand drive 220S cabriolet has the four-speed manual transmission with column-mounted gearchange and is finished in dark blue with light stone leather interior. A very nice original example presented in generally good condition, �CSK 540� was kept by its last owner for 20 years and has covered 78,000 miles. We are advised that a �ground upwards� restoration was carried out circa 20 years ago and that the car is currently undergoing further minor refurbishment. Offered with current MoT/road fund licence and Swansea V5.