Mercedes Benz 220 A (1955)Coordinates 43.387238,11.2253358
Picture dated May 2009
The Mercedes-Benz W180 is an inline 6-cylinder sedan, coupé, and convertible made from 1954 to 1959. The models associated with the W180 chassis code were the 220a and 220S.
Introduced in March 1954, the 220a was a more luxurious and up-scale version of the four cylinder W120 model 180. Part of the increase in length was necessary to accommodate the longer straight six engine that delivered 84 hp.
The passenger cabin was also lengthened by 70 mm to provide an increase in the leg room available to rear seat passengers. From the side these six cylinder cars can readily be distinguished from their shorter four cylinder siblings by the extra "quarter light" windows incorporated in each of the rear doors.
220a production ended in April, 1956 with 25,937 units produced.
The 220a was succeeded in March 1956 by the 220S, which was externally almost identical, but had an upgraded version of the 2.2L inline-six giving 99hp. The 220S featured a new one piece front bumper, instead of the 3-piece bumper used on the 220a. Also, the twin chrome and rubber strips running under the doors of the 220a were replaced with solid chrome strips. The most obvious difference is the addition of a chrome strip running along the front fenders and doors of the 220S.
In July 1956 a Cabriolet (two doors, four seats) joined the line-up, and in October 1956 a Coupé version followed suit. Some Cabriolets were finished with folding rear seats to accommodate additional luggage.
Until October 1959, 55,279 220S saloons and 3,429 Cabriolets and Coupés were built.
The W180 was one in a series of Mercedes-Benz models to informally receive the "Ponton" nickname. This was in reference to the unibody-type, pontoon-shaped exterior styling which was also featured on the later W128 line.
In the Mille Miglia of 2009 this car was driven by the team of B.Roykó (HU) & B.Roykó (HU) .
For more information see here.
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