1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet B

1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet B
Chassis no. 187013 0593/52
Engine no. 180921 5505186 (see text)
2,195CC SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
86HP at 4,600 RPM
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Exquisite restoration to factory correct specifications
*Equipped with fitted luggage neatly situated in the trunk
*Elegant and luxurious Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet rarely seen in the US
*Offered with large history and restoration file, and a copy of the factory built sheet

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 220

Mercedes-Benz introduced the 220 Sedan at the Frankfurt Auto Show April of 1951. The successor to the 170 S, it contained a number of updates, the primary of which being a streamlining of the headlight fitment. They were now faired into the fenders with chrome trim atop. However, the most significant change in the car was under the bonnet, where a new 2.2-liter six-cylinder engine replaced the earlier four-cylinder engine used in the 170 S. Horsepower made a significant increase from 52 to 80, transforming the car into the autobahn cruiser that Mercedes-Benz had intended. The Motor magazine found that the new Mercedes-Benz offered "unique sensations by combining a smooth and comfortable suspension on degraded roads with a light and precise steering, a behavior without roll and an ability to be part of a trajectory that would do honor to a race car."

The 220 lineup included a stylish Cabriolet that was produced from the beginning of the run to August of 1955—a total of 2,360 Cabriolets were built over a five-year run, of which just 596 were Cabriolet B's. More than 16,000 Mercedes-Benz 220s were sedans, but more discerning buyers also had the option of ordering a two-three seat Cabriolet A or a full four-seat Cabriolet B. These luxurious Cabriolet's featured dazzling leather interiors and dash in veneered wood, as well as bound Wilton carpet covering a large portion of lower interior.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This luxurious and elegant Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet was dispatched from the Sindelfingen-based Mercedes-Benz works on June 19, 1952 and sold to a European first owner. Reading over the copy of the cars factory built sheet on file, one will see that the 220 Cabriolet was finished in a grey exterior color, over a red leather interior, much as it appears today. The Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet migrated to the United States later, where it received a comprehensive restoration in the hands of Mr. Barry Briskman in the mid-1990s. Since the restoration, the car has been owned by collectors and driven less than 2,600 kilometers. The extensive history and restoration file accompanying the Mercedes-Benz includes many photos of the work performed during the restoration, along with an abundance of receipts. The car was completely disassembled, and both mechanical and cosmetic areas were refurbished. It should be noted, that the original engine was replaced at some point in time, but a correct unit is fitted in the car today.

Today, the stellar black exterior paint exhibits a deep shine, and the brightwork is in fantastic shape. The red leather interior is in exceptional condition, as is the gorgeous wood-trimmed cockpit. The engine bay and undercarriage are equally clean and detailed. This Cabriolet comes complete with a nice set of fitted luggage, correct tools, and the aforementioned extensive history file, including photo documentation of the restoration. Having seen limited use since its restoration by just two owners, this 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet B would make an excellent candidate for the country's most prestigious concours events.