With the introduction of the modern 200 series in March 1956, Mercedes-Benz continued its strong resurgence in the 1950s. The model became known as “Ponton”, not so much for the shape of its wings as for its front sub-frame.

With its reputation for solid and reliable automobiles well established, the Mercedes-Benz 220 models, internally designated W128, were a definite cut above the entry-level 180-Series cars, which entered production back in the early 1950s. Starting in 1954, a number of six-cylinder variants capitalized on the growing demand among buyers for increased power. The 220 (1954 to 1956), the 219 (1956 to 1959), 220S (1956 to 1959) and 220SE (1959 to 1960) provided abundant horsepower and torque, packaged in the smaller body style. Only the 220S (Super) and 220SE (Super, Fuel-Injected) engines were available in the top-line cabriolets.

The most desirable models soon followed, such as the cabriolet and coupé versions, which were handbuilt at Sindelfingen and correspondingly quite expensive. They were built on a shorter wheelbase than the saloon, their monocoque bodies were crafted of steel, with certain parts in aluminum to save weight, and the cabriolet’s floor was heavily reinforced to make up for the absence of a solid roof.

The 220SE coupe and cabriolet were luxuriously appointed and trimmed, offering many of the amenities associated with Mercedes-Benz’s limited-production 300-series cars. The dash, door finish and other parts of the handbuilt interior were covered in wood veneers of fabulous burled grain. Seats and interior trim were superior Roser surface-dyed leather hides, complemented by the highest-quality Wilton wool carpeting. The ultimate W128 model was the 220SE Cabriolet, introduced in 1959 and produced only through October 1960. Only 1,112 220SE cabriolets were built. Priced from $8,091 when new, the 220SE Cabriolet was similar in cost to Cadillac’s contemporary Eldorado Biarritz Convertible.

This 1960 Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet sports a 2.2-liter inline six-cylinder, fuel-injected, 100-hp engine with a manual four-speed transmission. The cream exterior with tan canvas soft-top and tan leather are outstanding together, making this Mercedes stand apart amongst its contemporaries. This 220SE has a radio, clock and also comes with luggage.

This model was a sumptuously-appointed five-passenger convertible that you could safely wind through the gears to 6,000-rpm on virtually any road. And at flat-out speeds, it was designed to stay on the road and corner with the surety of four-wheel independent suspension. When you wanted to stop – and fast – it would provide the power of large finned brake drums with servo assist. With an interior that sees leather and polished wood liberally used, it has peerless appointments, outstanding handling characteristics and incomparable styling. These cars were manufactured to add exclusivity to the delight of driving exemplary machinery.