Fantasy Junction

Description

1956 Mercedes-Benz 220 S Cabriolet
s/n 6507351
Brown with Cream Leather

Built in Mercedes’ great tradition of irreproachable build quality and superlative engineering, the pontoon series was a mainstay of Mercedes production during the 1950s. The sedans were produced in large numbers, but the coupe and convertible were much more expensive and sold in very limited numbers. They were more luxurious and had tremendous presence, thanks to their almost baroque styling and significant amounts of chrome trim. The interiors were trimmed with high quality leather and wood, while the cars were mechanically sophisticated with independent suspension, unitized construction and fuel-injection on the later cars.

This particular car is a first year Pontoon cabriolet and is a very solid example that spent most of its life in the Palm Desert of California. It is substantially original, with one repaint and new carpets in the 1970’s. Its previous owner was a noted collector who kept the car for many years. It has been recently serviced (November 2009) to include tuning the engine, replacing the points, adjusting the carburetors, replacing the fuel gauge sending unit, rebuilding the fuel pump, replacing the brake master cylinder, replacing shift lever bushing, and adjusting the steering box.

The general feel of the car is one of originality, and indeed, much of the car is unrestored. The paintwork has mellowed since its renewal, and matches the feel of the rest of the car, which is that of a well-cared for original example. The paint is nice overall, though close inspection reveals some blemishes. The body is straight and appears solid, and the panels fit well. The chrome trim is in good shape and is all present, with light pitting only. The convertible top is canvas with light wear, and the rear window is clear. The car is fitted with Bosch auxiliary lamps, which are in fine overall shape, though there is a hole in the glass of one of them.

The interior is extremely original, other than the carpets. The leather has been redyed and is in impressive condition, with only a few areas showing noticeable deterioration. The wood is also reported to be original and is excellent. The instruments and switches are in fine shape as well, and the car has a vintage Becker Mexico radio. The steering wheel has a few cracks.

The engine compartment is original, unrestored, and correct. It is very tidy and honest in feel and presentation, and shows signs of recent maintenance. The trunk is original and unrestored. It is solid throughout, including the floor, which is a frequent weak area in these cars. The jack and spare are both present.

This is a great opportunity to acquire a predominantly original of a rare open car that exemplifies what makes Mercedes-Benz great. The car is robustly built, well-engineered, and stylish. Having been recently serviced, it runs well, and is ideally suited to open air touring. Further, its longtime California history ensures that it is a fundamentally unmolested and extremely solid example.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608