1958 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Ponton Coupe
The Mercedes-Benz “Ponton” series are a range of sedans / saloon car models from Daimler-Benz, introduced starting in 1953, and subsequently nicknamed ‘Ponton’ (the German word for “pontoon”), referring to its ponton styling, a prominent styling trend that unified the previously articulated hood, body, fenders and runnings boards into a singular, often slab-sided envelope. At the time, Mercedes itself did not refer to any of its cars using the nickname.
The first new Mercedes-Benz production after the war was the ponton series – a sensation! With self-supporting bodies and innovative safety elements such as crumple zones and safety steering columns, it was a milestone in the automotive engineering. In 1954, the luxury class model was followed by the new 200 series of the ponton series, now on an extended floor assembly. Back then, as part of the Mercedes-Benz company policy, elegant coupé- and convertible-versions of the ponton were created next to the sedans. These exclusive small series were handcrafted and had a high processing quality. The last technical expansion stage was in 1958 with the Mercedes-Benz SE with a 2.2 liter engine and with a prestigious injection system. The Mercedes-Benz SE Coupés and Cabriolets cost with 23.400 DM considerably more than the sedans of the ponton series with 14.400 DM.
It was also the carmaker’s first-ever monocoque, unitary body production model, andwas only produced for a decade. The two-door coupe is named after the German word for “pontoon” and boasts a bulbous style of bodywork that is accented by a nostalgic mid-century appearance. It also features a rare sunroof, Becker Grand Prix radio and an automatic antenna.
All-round coil-sprung independent suspension had long been a fixture of the Mercedes-Benz range, and that of the newcomers benefited from the newly developed single-pivot rear swing axle.
A true connoisseur’s classic, this W128-series Mercedes-Benz 220 SE ‘Ponton’ Cabriolet is a rare and sophisticated motor car, which makes a fine choice for weekend road trips or even grand touring across borders.
