Description
Design of a replacement for the two-door Pontons began in 1957; as most of the chassis and drivetrain were to be unified with the sedan, the scope was focused on the exterior styling. Some of the mockups and prototypes show that Mercedes-Benz attempted to give the two-door car a front styling almost identical to what would be realised in the Pagoda roadster, but ultimately favoured the work of engineer Paul Bracq. The rear bodywork however, persisted, and thus though officially still called a fintail, the rear end design had no chrome fin highlights. Production began in late 1960, and in February of the next year the coupe was premiered in Stuttgart for the 75th anniversary of the opening of the Mercedes-Benz Museum.
Unlike the previous generation of two-door Ponton series, there was only one model for the two-door vehicle, the 220SE on both versions, with the identical M127 2,195cc engine. Options included a sliding sunroof for the coupe, automatic transmission, power steering, and individual rear seats.
Finished in a refreshing Light blue metallic with beautifully contrasting red leather interior, this very desirable specification 220SEb is a European car, not one of the usual US imports and comes fitted with the rarely optioned sunroof and manual gearbox.
Provided with an extensive service history and original service book, most recently the car received a thorough service and has travelled a mere 850km since. The service included new coil, spark plugs, rear axle bearings, brake and clutch cylinders, brakes, injectors cleaned, rear end restoration and more. The car is on the button and ready to be enjoyed in the forthcoming summer months.
Originally sold new in Germany in 1976, before being exported to America and repatriated to Europe. Currently fitted with the stylish American headlights however can easily be replaced with European H4’s.
