Description
This car is Lot 135 to be auctioned by Bonhams|Cars at The Quail Auction on Friday August 15, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available Wednesday August 13 from 09:00 until 18:00, Thursday 14 August from 09:00 until 18:00, and Friday 15 August from 08:30 onwards, at The Quail Lodge.
Lot 135
1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A
Registration no.
Chassis no. 187012. 05393/ 52
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
* One of only 1, 178 Cabriolet A's built
* Showing just 90, 746 km (56, 392 miles), believed to be original
* Elegant and luxurious Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet rarely seen in the US
* Well-presented example featuring an older restoration
* Finished in medium red over light gray leather interior
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 1955a total of 2, 360 Cabriolets were built over a five-year run, of which just 1, 178 were Cabriolet A'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 CAR OFFERED
This luxurious and elegant Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet was dispatched from the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim based Mercedes-Benz works in 1952. This highly sought after Cabriolet A is offered in the very charming color combination of medium red over light grey leather interior with similar colored soft top. Restored some years ago, the car presents well with paint that retains its luster and shine. The interior is nicely appointed with a quality restoration and sports a Telefunken radio, that will undoubtedly lead to many a conversation. The interior wood trim and brightwork are in tidy condition as is the rest of the cabin.
Under the hood is a nicely presented engine bay with the Mercedes '6' mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The odometer reads 90, 746 km, or 56, 392 miles at the time of photography, believed to be its original mileage. This elegant motorcar exudes period chic and would be at ease on a concours show field or a drive on a warm summer's evening, made even easier with its optional driving lights fitted to the front end. Surely a wonderful opportunity to acquire one of Mercedes most attractive convertibles of the early 1950s.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams|Cars website for all pertinent auction information.
