47p2
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Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180
The Ponton was Daimler-Benz's first totally-new Mercedes-Benz series of passenger vehicles produced after World War II. In July 1953, the cars replaced the pre-war-designed Type 170 series and were the bulk of the automaker's production through 1959, though some models lasted through 1962.
The Mercedes-Benz W180 is a 6-cylinder sedan, coupé, and convertible made from 1954 to 1959. The models associated with the W180 chassis code were the 220a and 220S. The W180 was one in a series of Mercedes-Benz models to receive the "Ponton" moniker. This was in reference to the unibody-type, pontoon-shaped exterior styling which was also featured on the later W128 line.
220a (W180 I)
Introduced in March, 1954, the 220a was a more luxurious and up-scale version of the W120 model 180 with a wheelbase stretched by 170 mm (6.7 in) to accommodate the longer straight-6 engine taken from the W187 model 220, that in this application delivered 85 PS (84 hp/63 kW). Mechanically similar, but endowed with the shorter cabin, simpler trim and less chrome was the less pricey W105 model 219. 220a production ended in April, 1956 with 25,937 units produced.
220S (W180 II)
The 220a was succeeded in March, 1956 by the 220S, which was externally almost identical, except for an additional chrome strip running along the front fenders and doors, but had an upgraded version of the 2.2L inline-six (100 PS (99 hp/74 kW), later 106 PS (105 hp/78 kW)).
In July, 1956 a Cabriolet (two doors, four seats) joined the line-up, 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. At that time, these models were replaced by fuel-injected 220SE versions that officially bore the model code W128.
These cars came in various guises and below we have a 2 door coupe and a beautiful cabriolet.
Once I find some suitable 4 door pictures I will amend this post
Last edited by 47p2, 24/Nov/2008, 7:54 pm
--- ROVER
One of Britain's Fine Cars
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24/Nov/2008, 10:07 am
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hoody7
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Re: Mercedes-Benz Pontoon W180
is that black one local,i am sure i have seen it,what a car.
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24/Nov/2008, 10:43 am
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Barge Captain
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Re: Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180
Dragging this up again, I like the cigar lighters on top of the dash board most unusual, would the black car have been an auto?
---
1989 Rover 827Si
2010 VW Golf SE Bluemotion TDi
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15/Mar/2009, 11:05 am
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moggie99
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Re: Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180
I like that - it's such a pity that modern Mercs don't even have 10% of the style that these do.
--- Richard Moss: BMC/BL/ARG/Rover addict and Captain Mainwaring impersonator.
1969 MGC GT. 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee. 2003 Chevrolet Lumina Coupe.
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15/Mar/2009, 8:32 pm
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Keith111M
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Re: Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180
Is that cabriolet badge on the back a standard fitment. :eyes:
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15/Mar/2009, 11:45 pm
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Keith111M
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Re: Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180
It's naff, it looks like its off a Peugeot or something, I'll get our Rob to look at it if Sam doesn't tell us first.
:coat:
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16/Mar/2009, 1:48 pm
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You're quite right, JT - THESE are the Mercs that so enchanted me when I was a kid, and made seeing one a real event. They were truly a class act, special - and the £50k price tag comes as no surprise at all. Great choice! 
