Description
Mercedes-Benz 220 A Cabriolet | 1954
Highlights:
– 1950s hand-built luxury convertible
– Restored around 1999/2000
– Six-cylinder petrol engine
– Original leather interior with working instruments
– Classic post-war Mercedes design
The seller offers for sale a 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 A Cabriolet, powered by a 2.2-litre inline-six petrol engine paired with a manual transmission. This classic convertible represents the early post-war efforts of Mercedes-Benz to return to luxury car production. With a documented restoration carried out around the turn of the millennium, the car has remained with the same owner since that time.
The 220 A Cabriolet features the elegant curves and upright grille design typical of Mercedes-Benz models from the early 1950s. This example retains its original mechanical layout and configuration, with no technical modifications such as power steering or disc brakes. It is equipped with a full set of working gauges and meters, and the bodywork still shows the hand-crafted approach Mercedes was known for in that era.
The odometer reads 25,000 km, although this is not documented. The seller reports the car is in good mechanical condition. All lights, indicators and electrics function as they should. The car is not subject to periodic roadworthiness testing due to its age.
The exterior presents well, though not described as flawless. Paintwork overall appears to be in presentable condition for a 70-year-old classic, in line with the car’s maintained yet used status. The cabriolet roof and body trim remain intact.
The interior features original leather upholstery, which, while showing signs of use, is said to be in good condition and does not require replacement. Dash, instruments and switchgear are complete and functional. No major interior defects are reported. Overall, the vehicle reflects a maintained and respected example of a high-end convertible from the mid-century Mercedes lineup, preserved in a usable and visually good state.
The Mercedes-Benz 220 A Cabriolet belongs to the W187 series, introduced in 1951 and built until 1955. At the time, this model was the brand’s top offering, continuing Mercedes-Benz’s tradition of hand-crafted luxury cars before mass production took over.
It was powered by a 2.2-litre inline six-cylinder engine, derived from the pre-war 170 S models but refined to produce around 80 horsepower — quite respectable for the time. Offered as a sedan, coupé and two- or four-seater cabriolet, the 220 series stood out for its advanced engineering, including independent suspension, and the brand’s characteristic focus on driving comfort.
The 220 A Cabriolet was among the most expensive German cars of its time, often purchased by diplomats, business executives, or used in ceremonial roles. Only a few thousand cabriolet versions were ever made, making survivors today highly sought after by collectors. With its tall, upright grille, generous use of chrome, and flowing fenders, the 220 A Cabriolet is one of the last Mercedes-Benz models to fully embrace pre-war styling cues.
While the car was eventually succeeded by the more modern “Ponton” Mercedes (W180 series), the 220 A remains a highly regarded bridge between pre-war elegance and post-war innovation. Restored examples continue to hold steady value in the collector market, particularly those with long-term ownership and original interiors. Enthusiasts appreciate these cars not only for their beauty but for the driving experience, which, while not fast by modern standards, is refined and comfortable thanks to Mercedes’ attention to chassis and suspension design.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South Holland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
