1957 | Mercedes-Benz 220 S Cabriolet

Highlights:

• Matching Numbers
• Good history
• Collector's vehicle

Brand & model history:

In 1951, Mercedes-Benz reintroduced six-cylinder models to its lineup with the 220 and 300 types, which were unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the spring. Both featured overhead camshaft engines, where the valves were arranged across the head rather than in a line, operated by rocker arms. The 220 was powered by a 2,195-cc engine that produced 80 hp at 4,600 rpm in its standard version. A separate chassis was retained for these models, which was replaced in 1956 by a new series with a unified body and pontoon-style design.

In this new form, the 220S sedan debuted alongside the 190 and 219 at the 1956 Frankfurt Auto Show. Like the contemporary 180, the new trio was characterized by a unified construction of chassis and body, independent suspension all around, and drum brakes. The 220S was powered by an upgraded (100 hp) version of the existing 2,195-cc six-cylinder overhead camshaft engine, reaching a top speed of around 100 km/h. A shorter wheelbase was used for the cabriolet model, which appeared in May 1956, as well as for the coupe, introduced the following year when the semi-automatic Hydrak transmission became available as an option. The Sindelfingen factory bodywork was attractive, especially in cabriolet form, as seen in this example. Aside from a power increase to 106 hp in 1957, the 220S changed little during its relatively short life, with production ceasing in October 1959. Less than 3,500 coupes and cabriolets were built during this time, and today these elegant and exclusive limited-edition models are highly sought after.

History & condition:

This white Mercedes 220 S Cabriolet was delivered to its first owner in Bad Godesberg, Germany, on April 26, 1957. The vehicle has matching numbers and an interesting history:

A letter from DST GmbH to Mr. Dunburry, dated March 15, 1983, addressed to Saudi Arabia, confirms the completion of a full restoration of the body, with photographic documentation still available today.

The door, hood, and trunk gaps (see photos) demonstrate the high quality of the restoration at that time. However, the vehicle likely did not leave Germany for the USA until 1984, according to the available international vehicle registration certificate with Mr. Dunburry's destination address in Missouri, USA.

In January 2020, the 220 S Cabriolet was purchased by a Dutch car dealer from "Cars Remember When Auto Sales" in Santa Fe and received in Amsterdam in April 2020. In September 2020, the vehicle was bought by the current owner from the Dutch dealer and transported to Munich.

In April 2021, a technical report was prepared to obtain an individual operating permit, and the vehicle was registered with an H license plate in May 2021. The mileage was listed as 64,530 km. The current odometer reading is 65,898 km.

After reimporting from the USA/Netherlands, the vehicle's mechanics were brought into top condition by a German specialist workshop for Ponton vehicles in April 2021 and June 2023. Receipts totaling €19,653 are available. This six-cylinder engine can be driven without stuttering in 2nd gear even in traffic jams, and the smoothness is impressive. The vehicle’s TÜV is valid until 08/2025.

The vehicle has matching numbers, as confirmed by the original plates.

Several historical documents, such as the original data sheet and original brochures, are available. The operating manual and two very extensive workshop manuals are also present. Additionally, specialist books and literature specifically for this vehicle type are included. Only about 1,100 units of this model were built in 1957.

This classic vehicle is privately owned and fully suitable for everyday use, which is not always the case for vintage cars. It is ready to drive and can reliably be used for daily driving or outings. Overall, it is in good condition but has some signs of use.

Market positioning and prices:

The 220S coupe and cabriolet are highly sought after due to their classic Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship and limited production numbers (less than 3,500 units for both models combined). The Sindelfingen factory bodywork, especially in cabriolet form, is admired for its clean lines and high-quality finish, making it a must-have in any collection of post-war European luxury cars.

Restoration and part availability can be challenging, especially with body parts and original trim, which increases the value of well-preserved or restored examples.

In the last ten years, prices for 1950s Mercedes models, particularly the 220S, have steadily risen due to increasing demand for post-war European classics.

While the 220S may not be as well-known as its more luxurious sibling, the 300SL, it enjoys the same reputation for build quality and style, making it an attractive option for collectors seeking a classic Mercedes without the astronomical prices of the 300 series.

The coupe and cabriolet are much rarer than the sedan and, therefore, fetch significantly higher prices. A well-restored 220S cabriolet can fetch between €120,000 and €200,000, with particularly pristine examples exceeding this range. The value of the coupe is similarly high, although the open-top variant is often more desirable.

Summary:

This Mercedes-Benz 220S Cabriolet is one of the rare convertible variants. Various sources believe that only about 110 vehicles still exist. With a clean history, good restoration, and original engine and transmission, this 220S should be part of any collection.