1959 Mercedes-Benz 220S 220S

History and Background

The Mercedes-Benz 220S is part of the W180 series, also known internally as the “Ponton” generation, which was introduced by Mercedes-Benz in the mid-1950s. This model series marked an important step in the brand’s postwar development, featuring a monocoque body and a design that clearly differed from the separate chassis construction of earlier Mercedes models. The Mercedes-Benz 220S was positioned in the upper mid-range segment and was intended as a comfortable, technically sophisticated automobile for both private and business use.

Within the 220 series, the Mercedes-Benz 220S was positioned between the more basic variants and the more powerfully engine-equipped versions. In this generation, the “S” designation denoted a better-equipped model with an inline-six-cylinder engine and dual carburetors as standard equipment for that period. The W180 series was available in various body styles, including a four-door sedan and a coupe, and was produced until the arrival of the next generations in the early 1960s. The 220S is thus representative of the period in which Mercedes-Benz further built upon its reputation for reliability, engineering, and build quality.

The 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220S falls within the late production years of this series, a phase in which the Ponton models had established a firm foothold in the European market. From a historical perspective, this model was seen as a bridge between the postwar Mercedes models and the brand’s later, more modern model series.

Features and Details

This Mercedes-Benz 220S is equipped with a six-cylinder carburetor engine and a semi-automatic transmission. The combination of a six-cylinder inline engine with a semi-automatic transmission aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s technical approach during this period, when comfort and smooth handling were paramount. Within the lineup of the time, the Mercedes-Benz 220S offered a higher degree of refinement than many of its contemporaries in the same segment.

A few years ago, work was performed on this Mercedes-Benz 220S, during which the power brakes were overhauled, a new clutch disc was installed, and the fuel pump was replaced. The carburetors were also flushed, all four wheel cylinders were replaced, and various cables were replaced. These interventions are part of the vehicle’s technical history and provide insight into the maintenance performed in the past.

The Mercedes-Benz 220S is known in automotive history as a car that combined mechanical simplicity with high-quality construction. The semi-automatic transmission is a feature that contributes to the distinctive character of this model, as does the six-cylinder configuration, which played a significant role in this class during those years.

Summary

The 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220S is a model from Mercedes-Benz’s Ponton generation, equipped with a six-cylinder carburetor engine and a semi-automatic transmission. Various technical repairs have been performed in the past, including replacement of the power brakes, the clutch plate, the fuel pump, the wheel cylinders, and various cables. To get a good idea of the lot, we recommend that you attend the viewing day.

Please note: This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions.

This car is being offered in the “Classics, Sports Cars, and Youngtimers Uithoorn” online auction. The car is available for viewing during the viewing days. The listed amount represents the lower end of the estimated value. Bidding starts at €5,000.

Auction

Opening: Friday, October 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Closing: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, starting at 8:00 p.m.

Location

Anthony Fokkerweg 7
1422 AE Uithoorn
Netherlands

Viewing Days

Friday, October 30 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday, November 3 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

For more information about the auction, viewing days, and the full selection, visit www.classiccar-auctions.com.

Create an Account

Simply create a free account to start bidding.

Transportation

After the auction, we can arrange transportation.

Within the Netherlands: €250, excluding VAT.
Outside the Netherlands: transportation upon request.

Want to auction a car yourself?

Would you like to sell a classic car, youngtimer, sports car, or an entire collection through one of our auctions? Feel free to contact us.

Email: [email protected]
Website: www.classiccar-auctions.com
Phone: +31 (0)20 210 1201.