1959 Mercedes-Benz 220SE Cabriolet Chassis no. 128030N-8500069 Engine no. 127980-8500060

1959 Mercedes-Benz 220SE Cabriolet Chassis no. 128030N-8500069 Engine no. 127980-8500060
2,195cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder EngineBosch Mechanical Fuel Injection115bhp at 4,800rpm4-speed Manual Transmission4-wheel Independent Suspension 4-Wheel Power Drum Brakes*Beautifully restored example of the desirable, fuel injected 'Ponton' 220SE Cabriolet*Featured in multi-page article in the Mercedes-Benz Star Magazine *Gorgeous color scheme of Strawberry Red over Parchment leather*Offered from the loving care of a long-time Mercedes-Benz enthusiastTHE MERCEDES-BENZ 220SMercedes-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 bodyshells employing large, box-section side-members - hence the term 'Ponton'. All-round coil-sprung independent suspension had long been a fixture of the Mercedes-Benz range, and that of the newcomers benefited from the newly developed single-pivot rear swing axle. A shorter wheelbase was adopted for the Cabriolet model that appeared in May 1956 and also for the Coupe introduced the following year when the Hydrak semi-automatic transmission become available as an option. Luxuriously equipped in the best Daimler-Benz tradition, these superbly constructed Gran Turismos were priced some 70% above the 220S saloon. In 1958 the 220 range was updated with a Bosch mechanically fuel injected version of the 2.2-liter overhead-camshaft six, becoming the 220SE. Maximum power increased from 106 to 115 brake horsepower, and while top speed remained unchanged at around 100mph, there was a useful improvement in acceleration, the 0-60mph time reducing by two seconds. By the time production ceased in November 1960, fewer than 2,000 220SE Coupe and Cabriolet models had been manufactured, and today these elegant and exclusive limited edition Grand Tourers are highly regarded among collectors of the Mercedes-Benz brand.MOTORCAR OFFEREDFinished in the era-appropriate Mercedes-Benz color of DB543 Strawberry Red over a Parchment leather upholstery and light cloth convertible top, this 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220SE Cabriolet has been treated to a comprehensive, nut-and-bolt restoration. While in the hands of the consignor - a Portland, Oregon based Mercedes-Benz enthusiast - the elegant and luxurious Cabriolet has been diligently serviced and maintained, while exercised on Mercedes-Benz club driving events. The engine compartment housing the fuel injected six-cylinder overhead cam engine is neatly detailed, with correct factory decals in place, while it should be noted that the stamped engine number has one extra zero, compared to the number stamped on the engine number plate below it. Outside, the stunning chrome and brightwork remains in beautiful condition along with the striking paintwork, and color-coded hubcaps are fitted along with appropriate white-wall tires.Inside, highly polished woodwork on the dashboard and door caps welcomes the occupants, while a period correct Blaupunkt radio is fitted in the center. High quality wool carpeting is fitted and carried out though the luggage compartment. A Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) National First Prize Award has been achieved with the 220SE, as well as an award at the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. This beautiful 220SE Cabriolet was featured in a multi-page article in the April 2019 edition of the Star Magazine, and throughout the car the attention to detail very impressive indeed. Examples like this - particularly desirable models and body styles like the 220SE Cabriolet - are increasingly hard to find and make stylish, reliable open-topped entries for Concours d'Elegance events or weekend drives.