Mercedes-Benz launched its 220 a, the predecessor to this car, in 1954, and it represented the marque’s new generation of unit-body constructed cars. It was built on a 170.8-millimetre longer wheelbase than its predecessor, the 180, and it gave more legroom to rear-seat passengers and more room under the bonnet for a 2.2-litre, six-cylinder engine. Servo-assisted brakes became standard in September 1955. When the 220 S was introduced in August 1957, the horsepower of the engine was increased to 106 by two Solex downdraft carburettors. A Hydrak hydraulically operated clutch became available as an extra-cost option. Only 1,280 coupés and cabriolets were produced during the 1958 model year.

The lovely cabriolets were produced in limited numbers and hand-finished at Sindelfingen to the highest standards of Mercedes-Benz’s prestige models. Bodies were mass-produced but finished by craftsman skilled in the art of coachbuilding. This, in part, explained why the cabriolets cost nearly 75 percent more than their saloon equivalents! Limited numbers when new add to their desirability and exclusivity today.

The cars introduced by Mercedes-Benz in the 1950s helped to move the company into its present market niche, and this decision paid off, as Mercedes-Benz has become an extraordinarily successful company on the back of matchless engineering and build quality. The 220 S is part of that tradition, and it remains one of the most desirable motor cars of its day. At the top of the range was the S Cabriolet, a stylish and graceful tourer, of which this is an excellent example.

Chassis LRS 26 is particularly unusual, as it is one of just a handful of original right-hand-drive examples built, and it is believed that only eight remain out of the original twenty produced. This car was first registered on 1 May 1958 to Dr Ian Mackenzie Munro in London, and a subsequent owner lovingly retained the car from July 1970 and kept it for 43 years. In June 1974, it was driven to Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart for the bonnet to be reupholstered, the clutch to be replaced, and for a general service and tune up.

In June 2009, chassis LRS 26 was collected by Classic Mercedes-Benz and underwent a full restoration, which took over 26 months and was undertaken by Walter Nieukoop and his team, with receipts for which totalling over £60,000. The paintwork and body are described as excellent, as one would expect, and the red hide interior is still original and boasting a beautiful patina.

Since the completion of the work, LRS 26 was awarded Best in Show at Brodie Castle in 2011, and in 2012, it was awarded Best Restoration at Forres Vintage and Classic Vehicle Show. Earlier this year, the car was also awarded the Most Desired Car in the club stand at Forres, which was held in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz.

This Mercedes-Benz 220 S Cabriolet is accompanied by a comprehensive history file and original owner’s and instruction manuals. It is one of a handful of cars remaining, and its presentation is a reflection of the chicness of the 1950s.