Mercedes-Benz Ponton W128 Sedan 220 SE (115 Hp) Hydrak


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Mercedes-Benz Ponton:

The Mercedes-Benz "Ponton" series is a range of sedans / saloon car models from Mercedes-Benz, introduced starting in 1953, and subsequently nicknamed 'Ponton' , 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.
Mercedes stretched the 'Ponton' saloons into a range that became the automaker's dominant production models until 1959....(Read more on Wikipedia)

W128 Sedan Overview:

Mercedes-Benz Ponton (W128 Sedan). With 186 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1360 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 15 s). The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

220 SE (115 Hp) Hydrak Verdict:

Rating 7 stars

Performance Verdict

Similar performance to the manual version, with the Hydrak automatic clutch system offering a smoother, albeit slightly less direct, driving experience. Still focused on comfort over speed.

Fuel Economy

Slightly higher fuel consumption at 10.9 l/100 km compared to the manual due to the Hydrak automatic clutch system's operational characteristics.

Best Use Case: Comfort-Oriented Cruising / Collector's Item

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Iconic classic car status and elegant design
  • • Excellent build quality and robust engineering for its era
  • • Comfortable and refined ride quality
  • • Historical significance as an early fuel-injected production car
  • • Strong collector's appeal and appreciating value

Cons:

  • • Performance is modest by modern standards
  • • Lack of modern safety features (e.g., airbags, ABS)
  • • Maintenance and parts can be expensive for a classic
  • • Fuel economy is poor compared to contemporary vehicles
  • • Steering and braking require more effort than modern cars

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:Ponton
Generation:W128 Sedan
Modification (Engine):220 SE (115 Hp) Hydrak
Start of production:April, 1958
End of production:August, 1959
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:115 Hp @ 4800 rpm.
Power per litre:52.4 Hp/l
Torque:186 Nm @ 3800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 127 I / 127.980
Engine displacement:2195
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:SOHC
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:80 mm
Piston Stroke:72.8 mm
Compression ratio:8.7:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:10.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:15 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:15 sec
Maximum speed:160 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:11.8 kg/Hp, 84.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.3 kg/Nm, 136.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:14.3 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1360
Max. weight:1810
Max load:450
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Size:
Length:4750 mm
Width:1740 mm
Height:1560 mm
Wheelbase:2820 mm
Front track:1430 mm
Rear (Back) track:1470 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeManual
Gearbox typeHydrak
Front brakesDrum
Rear brakesDrum
Steering typeCone worm with recirculation balls
Front suspensionDouble wishbone, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionTrailing arm

If you could change one thing about the Mercedes-Benz Ponton, what would it be?