Hand-finished in Sindelfingen, the 200 series propelled Mercedes-Benz into the 1950s. Marking a technological leap forward for the new decade, the model line featured a unibody construction as opposed to the more traditional body-on-frame method. Combined with a more modern aesthetic, which was achieved by integrating the wings into the main coachwork, the cars earned their ‘Ponton’ nickname.

For 1958, the updated 220 SE arrived. Under the streamlined skin sat a 2.2-litre straight-six, which delivered its power via a four-speed manual transmission operated by a column-mounted shift lever. Most significantly, it utilised a Bosch mechanical fuel-injection system (“einspritzmotor” in German), as represented by the “E” in the “SE” nomenclature.

The example on offer presents handsomely with navy blue paintwork, matching-colour wheel centres, and a beige soft-top roof. The latter complements the beige leather interior, which is adorned with wood trim. Although the car’s complete history is not fully known, a plaque in the engine bay indicates that this 220 SE was imported into France via Charles-François Delecroix’s official Mercedes-Benz agent Royal-Élysées in Paris. Subsequently purchased in July 2010, the car has most recently resided as part of The Willy Michiels Collection in Belgium.

This rare and desirable ‘Ponton’ Cabriolet would make for a glamorous addition to any classic car ensemble.