1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A

Introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in April 1951, the 220 was in effect a six-cylinder cousin of the 170S utilising the same 2,845mm wheelbase chassis. Although closely based on the 170S, the 220 featured more modern styling, updated with headlamps integrated into the wings. With 80bhp available courtesy of its 2.2-litre overhead-camshaft engine, the 220 saloon was good for a top speed of around 140km/h, with 145km/h attainable by the drophead coupé-style Cabriolet A. In the best Mercedes-Benz tradition, these lovely Cabriolets were exceptionally well equipped. Just 1,278 examples of the 'Cabriolet A' found homes in the five years of production and, with less than a third of them remaining, they are now highly sought after.

This particular example rolled off the production line in 1952 to begin a long and interesting life. Purchased in 2000, the Mercedes was used on a regular basis until 2013 at which point some improvements were deemed necessary, passing into the hands of Mercedes Specialists, ‘Storriers’, for their kind attention. After a six-year, chassis-up restoration to the very highest of standards this 220 Cabriolet A is once again truly outstanding.  The shell was 'soda-blasted' and refinished in gleaming Silver with a Deep Salmon hide interior and could be described as being in showroom condition such is the finish, so good in fact that, upon completion, it was placed at Mercedes World as a major exhibit. Every component has received attention with the 220 parts catalogue coming into its own, thankfully after seventy years Mercedes commitment to their older stable mates still remains a priority and the majority of components are still available. From the engine through the drive train to the interior and exterior everything has received the full attention deserved of a vehicle of this age and quality; German engineering at its finest. With minor use since completion, a period of further running-in is highly recommended. Your early inspection is welcomed and encouraged to fully appreciate the care and attention that have gone into bringing this exquisite Mercedes back to life.

Imagine yourself on a June evening in this lovely 50s Mercedes, boulevarding through the colourful streets of Villefranche-sur-Mer, enjoying the warm Cote d'Azure air, turning left onto the quayside and rolling gently to a halt by the terrace outside La Mere Germain, to the polite applause of the knowledgeable diners who always appreciate a stunning classic. It doesn't have to be a dream, the Restaurant is still there and the car is here. Why not?