• Delivered new in the UK
• Single family ownership for some 40 years
• Professionally restored
• Comprehensive history file

Having concentrated on four-cylinder models as production got under way following the end of WW2, Mercedes-Benz reintroduced six-cylinder models to its range in 1951 with the 220 and 300 types, both of which were shown at the Frankfurt Show in the spring of that year. Both featured single overhead camshaft engines with the valves set across the head, rather than in line, and actuated by rockers. The 220 was powered by a 2,195cc engine which in standard form produced 80bhp at 4,600rpm. A separate chassis was retained for these models, which were replaced in 1956 by a new range featuring unitary construction 'ponton' bodyshells.

In this new form the 220 S saloon debuted at the 1956 Frankfurt Auto Show together with the 190 and 219. Like the contemporary 180, the new trio featured unitary construction of the chassis/body, independent suspension all round, and drum brakes. Powered by an up-rated (100bhp) version of the existing 2,195cc overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine, the 220 S was good for a top speed of around 100mph (161km/h). A shorter wheelbase was adopted for the Cabriolet model that appeared in May 1956 and also for the Coupé introduced the following year when the Hydrak semi-automatic transmission become available as an option. The Sindelfingen factory coachwork was attractive, particularly in drophead form, as with this example. Apart from a power increase to 106bhp in 1957, the 220 S changed little in the course of its comparatively short life, production ceasing in October 1959. Fewer than 3,500 Coupés and Cabriolets were built in that time and today these elegant and exclusive limited edition models are highly prized.

According to the Mercedes-Benz delivery note (Lieferschein) addressed to 'Merc.-Benz, London, England', this stunning 220 S convertible left the factory on 2nd July 1957 and made its way to the UK by train via Ostende. It was specified as a right-hand drive model in black with red leather upholstery and single seats to the front, and the steering wheel in optional ivory (the standard colour was black).

The car's first owner was a Dr. Ian Mackenzie Munro of Southwest London, who would keep it until 1966 when he sold it to the next custodian in Scotland. (The foregoing history is documented in two lovely original registration logbooks.) Its last owner in Scotland purchased the car in the early 1970s. A keen Mercedes-Benz UK Car Club member, he drove the car to the Mercedes factory in Stuttgart in 1974 for some repairs and servicing. The charming correspondence with the factory and the related invoices are on file. The Mercedes would remain in the same family's possession for more than 40 years.

The first major restoration was undertaken in 2009 in the UK by Walter Nieuwkoop of Classic Mercedes-Benz,and the car was sold to another UK resident at auction in 2013. Sold at auction again in the UK in 2014 (still with its old UK registration 'LRS 26'), the car was purchased by a Swiss buyer, who in turn commissioned another, more thorough, restoration. Executed by Speedy Garage near Lausanne, Switzerland at a total cost of some CHF 128,900, this restoration included a repair of the bodyshell with new metal welded as needed, stripping the paint and repainting in the original black. A USB stick of photographs detailing the restoration comes with the car.

Our vendor, a lifelong motoring enthusiast with a penchant for perfection, bought the Mercedes at auction in 2019. Since then further refurbishment has included fitting a new high quality hood (outside and inside); installing a new wiring loom and various other works by the official Swiss Mercedes-Benz dealer and MB Classic Partner Kestenholz, including the clever installation of a period-correct Becker Europa radio with DAB receiver and mobile phone connectivity; and a service by Kestenholz. There is a large file of related invoices totalling 58,979 CHF (perusal highly recommended).

Beautifully presented, this delightful and rare 'Ponton'-era convertible (believed one of only 20 such cars built in right-hand drive configuration) comes with a large history folder containing the aforementioned invoices and photographs of the restoration as well as the two old-style UK logbooks; an original parts catalogue and booklet with Mercedes-Benz service points; copy of the MB delivery note; FIVA pass (just expired); and a cancelled Swiss registration document. A car for the discerning collector.

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.