Mercedes-Benz introduced the 220 Sedan at the April 1951 Frankfurt Auto Show with regular series production beginning in July of that year. The 220 was the successor to the 170 S and a clever update using essentially the same body as its predecessor. The main design change faired the headlights into the leading edge of the front fenders with chrome trim atop them so as to have a streamlined effect. The most significant change was under the bonnet, whereby a new 2.2-liter six-cylinder engine replaced the former four-cylinder engine used in the 170 S. Horsepower jumped from 52 to 80, making the car an able autobahn cruiser just as Mercedes-Benz had intended.

A stylish cabriolet was produced from July 1951 to August 1955; a total of 2,360 units were built over a five-year model run, including 1,178 in 1952. Production of all versions ceased in April 1956. Mercedes built eight times as many saloons as it did cabriolet and coupe models. The Cabriolet A models, such as this, commanded a 70 percent premium over saloon models which, understandably, kept production numbers comparatively low.

The Cabriolet A is a two-passenger convertible distinguished from the Cabriolet B by having a rear jump seat and a single side window compared to the four-passenger B. Distinguished from other 220 models, the Cabriolet As also include a leather-covered dash top in veneered wood and bound Wilton carpet covering the riser, kick panels, and rear floor. Rubber mats cover the front floor area.

This example was purchased in 1999 by three-time Oscar-nominated director and producer Frank Darabont, whose work includes such notable films as The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile. During his ownership, the car was restored and featured in his 2001 direction of The Majestic, starring Jim Carrey. It was then purchased by Robert Ryan of Pennsylvania in 2003 before being acquired by the current consignor in 2010. Since then, it has been used sparingly and driven little more than 300 trouble-free miles while also being properly stored in a heated garage.

Copies of original factory documentation confirm the matching numbers of this Cabriolet A, currently finished in ivory with a contrasting ivory-welted navy blue canvas soft-top and navy blue leather interior. It has been featured in the June 2012 issue of Le Magazine de l’Auto Ancienne. A three-piece fitted luggage set, the sales brochure, a Mercedes-Benz Edition D Instruction Manual, and a factory tool roll, jack, and lug wrench are also included in the sale. It is described as “running and driving exceptionally well” and “eminently comfortable at 60 mph.”

The 220 Cabriolet A has never been shown while in the consigner’s possession and would no doubt be a hit at any MBNA club event.