Lot 38: Mercedes-Benz 220S Cabriolet

One of three new models making their first appearance at the 1956 Frankfurt Show, the 220 was available as a four-door saloon, fixed head coupé or cabriolet.  The engine was an uprated version of the 219 unit being a 6-cylinder, 2.2-litre with overhead camshaft developing 106bhp at 5200rpm.  There was a choice of manual or Hydrak automatic transmission at extra cost.  A refined and handsome motor car in all its forms, the 220S continued until 1959 and today, as with all earlier Mercedes models, it is the cabriolet version that is the most eagerly sought by collectors being difficult to find, as fewer than 3,500 cabriolet and coupé models were produced. Dating from the final year of manufacture, the 220S Cabriolet offered here for sale has been in the current vendor's care for the past six and a half years and is reluctantly offered for sale due to lack of use owing to business commitments.  It is believed that the car was imported around 1997 from Zimbabwe where it had undergone extensive restoration.  Whilst in the present ownership the car has been carefully maintained and has enjoyed mainly summer use.  Less than 2000 miles have been covered since the car's acquisition.  The clutch has been replaced, as has the battery, exhaust rear silencer and starter motor.  The car is said to drive very well, being in good mechanical order in all respects.  The coachwork is reported to be very presentable and good and sound, although there is some micro-blistering in evidence, whilst the black canvas hood and hood cover are said to be in good serviceable condition.  The upholstery has been renewed at some point, as have the carpets, these items being in grey. A rare and desirable motor, this right-hand-drive example of the 220S Cabriolet is offered with documentation which includes an MOT certificate valid until 21st May 2007, V5 and V5C registration documents, a number of previous MOT certificates, an original sales brochure for the 220S models, along with further details showing the car to have won the 'Best of the 50s' class at the concours held at the Doune Classic Car Show in 2000.  Also supplied is a valuation letter from the Mercedes-Benz Club and sundry additional paperwork.