First introduced in 1956, the Mercedes-Benz 220 S was perched atop the 220 model range and was the last of the ‘Ponton’ series Mercedes-Benzes. Featuring a unitized body/frame construction and a fully independent suspension, the 220 S provided the kind of motoring experience that Mercedes-Benz’s demanding clients had come to expect of one of the most storied brands in automotive history, especially from the flagship ‘S-Class’ models.
The most desirable version of the 220 S was the cabriolet model. Built to exacting cosmetic and mechanical standards, a cabriolet cost 75% more than a comparable 220 S sedan, and it was easy to see why. The cabriolet could ferry its driver and three passengers down the motorway and allow them to soak up the sun in fantastic style. The automobile offered here is believed to be one of the very first ‘Ponton’ cabriolet ever built, bearing body no. 6500001. Pictured in the factory brochure, one of the car’s unique feature is that it boasts a hard cover that protects the convertible top when the top is down, rather than the leather cover seen on later models.
Delivered new to its first owner, Mr Bernhard Mohr, on 4 August 1956, the car would remain with Mr Mohr for nearly two decades until his death in 1971. After several years in the Mohr family, the car was purchased by Mr Hans Wacht, who began a restoration. By the early ’90s, with parts difficult to find, the car was still not finished and Mr Wacht sold the car to a restoration specialist in Beidweiler, Luxembourg. After two years of work, it was then sold again to a Mr Josepheus Johannes Havermans, also of Luxembourg. It then found its way to another owner before being purchased by the consignor.
Presenting beautifully in colours that mirror the car on the original 220 S brochure, this is a highly uncommon car. Adding in the fact that it is the very first ‘Ponton’ cabriolet, this is a highly significant automobile suitable for inclusion in any of the world’s finest collections.


