1957 Mercedes-Benz 220 S 'Ponton' Coupé

Registration no. 787UYX Chassis no. 180037 7511652

Footnotes

Built on the short wheelbase of the Cabriolet model, the 2.2-litre, six-cylinder 220 S Coupé was introduced in 1956 and changed little in the course of its comparatively short life, production ceasing in October 1959. Like its contemporaries, the 220 S Coupé featured a unitary construction bodyshell employing large, box-section side-members - hence the term 'Ponton'. Priced at DM21,500, the 220 S was one of the most expensive, and exclusive, models in the Mercedes-Benz range; only 1,251 were made between 1956 and 1959 compared with 2,178 Cabriolets.

This beautiful 220 S Coupé was driven and cared for over many years by its proud first owner, whose widow continued to use the car after his death. Together they drove the car approximately 75,000 kilometres (46,500 miles). After the owner's wife's death in 2001, the car was stored by Mercedes-Benz while its fate was decided. Louis Pint, a long-time Mercedes-Benz employee, looked after the 220 S and was able to purchase it once the lengthy legal proceedings concerning its inheritance had been concluded. In June 2005 the car was displayed at the premises of the Mercedes-Benz Club in the heart of Brussels. It was there that the immediately preceding owner fell in love with this 220 S coupé, of which only 14 are believed to exist in good order, and purchased it from Louis Pint. The new owner used the car sparingly.

In February 2013, the Mercedes was offered for sale at Bonhams' Grand Palais, Paris auction where it was purchased by a collector. At that time the car displayed a total of approximately 81,100 kilometres (50,400 miles) on the odometer, and was said to have been serviced annually by a retired Mercedes-Benz mechanic. The car was described as in very good condition, both mechanically and bodily, and said to need only a few minor improvements to bring it back in showroom condition.

Subsequently the new owner had significant works carried out in the UK by Ponton specialist Roger Edwards (new fuel tank and pump, brake system, hubs, carburettor overhauled, and regular servicing). Frank Dale & Stepsons have overhauled the suspension, and there are recent bills on file totalling circa £16,000. Earlier this year the Mercedes happily completed a rally to Germany and is MoT'd to May 2020. The car also comes with a Mercedes-Benz dating letter, copy build sheet, and a V5C document.

With few owners and relatively little used, this rare 220 S coupé represents a wonderful opportunity for the discerning collector to own one of these graceful, limited-edition Mercedes-Benz models of the classic era.