The Mercedes 220 series of the Fifties has the stately elegance and engineering integrity so beloved of this company from Stuttgart. The Cabriolet, the most attractive, rarest and most valuable of the series, epitomizes luxurious open air Continental touring on a grand scale.
The Frankfurt Motor Show in the Spring of 1951 saw the return of Mercedes-Benz to their traditional place in the high quality market with the introduction of the 220 series. Similar to current models, the cars featured six cylinder single overhead camshaft engines, valves being across, not in line, with the head. This unit produced an 80 bhp output at a relaxed 4,600 rpm, giving an impressive 90 mph top speed.
Roadworthiness was described by The Motor at the time as outstanding, all independent suspension giving a remarkably level ride on poor secondary roads, yet with good high speed cornering and precise steering.
This car pictured here is the much sought-after Cabriolet "A" version, resplendent in red with a contrasting black interior. It is in exceptional order throughout, having been fully restored by the Daimler-Benz Factory in Stuttgart, at a cost of almost $40,000.
KGH 36A has been part of a small private collection and maintained regardless of cost, only being used on highdays and holidays. It comes complete with invoices for the work carried out at Mercedes-Benz in Germany.
Perhaps the ideal mode of transport for a holiday abroad this summer?
SCM Analysis
Detailing
| Vehicle: | 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 A |
$32,934 was the price this “Cab A” brought at the Coys February 25th auction in London. “Cab As” have the same relationship to their larger 300 Cabriolet stablemates that the 190SLs do to the 300SL. The Cab A has a cute, pre-war look, complete with running boards, even though it is a post-war car. It provides visual panache at an affordable price.
This car, if properly restored, was underpriced. A first rate Cab A should bring in the $45,000 range. – ED.