Description
Mercedes-Benz 220S | 1956
Highlights:
- Rare survivor car from California with air conditioning
- Honest condition
- Complete interior, some parts disassembled but included
- Original paint with patina and minor surface rust
- Drives and shifts; suitable for light restoration project
The seller offers for sale this 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220S, a classic “Ponton” sedan and representative of Mercedes-Benz’s post-war craftsmanship. This car features a 2.2-litre inline-six petrol engine, mated to a manual transmission.
Lighting, indicators, and brake lights are in working order. While the brakes function, they need attention and should be serviced before regular use. The car is described as a mild project—mechanically operable but in need of cosmetic completion and some reassembly.
The paintwork is in fair condition for its age. Originally disassembled for a repaint that never took place, the body still shows minor surface rust, particularly behind the bumpers and under the car. The chrome exhibits bubbling, but the panels remain intact. Some nuts and bolts around the fenders and seats are missing, though these are largely cosmetic and readily replaceable.
Inside, the original interior is mostly complete. The seats are not fully bolted down and the driver’s seat track is inoperable. A section of wood trim has a damaged corner, but a matching replacement piece is included in the trunk. Overall, the cabin remains tidy and presents well, albeit with minor work needed to fully restore usability.
Despite its age, the car retains many of its original components and has benefited from California’s dry climate. A notable technical feature is the presence of air conditioning—an uncommon addition for cars of this era. While it’s unclear if this is original or retrofitted, it adds a layer of usability and comfort that sets this car apart.
The 220S was part of the W180 series, known colloquially as the “Ponton” due to its rounded, pontoon-style bodywork. Introduced in 1954, the 220S was positioned as an upper-middle-class luxury sedan, offering elegant design and engineering advancements such as a monocoque chassis, improved safety structures, and Mercedes’ famed inline-six engine. With twin carburettors and refined suspension, it provided a smooth and dignified ride befitting its status.
Produced until 1959, the 220S was a car driven by diplomats, professionals, and connoisseurs of German automotive engineering. Its understated luxury and build quality earned it a loyal following. Unlike many contemporaries, the 220S was not designed to be flashy—it was built to last, and many examples like this one remain restorable due to their solid construction and parts availability.
Today, the Ponton series represents a gateway into classic Mercedes-Benz ownership, offering timeless design with durable engineering. While concours-restored examples command high prices, cars like this one—presentable, functional, and mostly original—offer an appealing blend of affordability and authenticity. With some mechanical and cosmetic attention, this 1956 220S can be brought to reliable road-going condition, or preserved as a period survivor with light patina.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
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 California, USA.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a USA 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.
