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Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180 II Coupe 220 S (106 Hp)
Overall Rating
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)
W180 II Coupe Overview:
Mercedes-Benz Ponton (W180 II Coupe). With 172 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1350 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 17 s). The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
220 S (106 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The most potent manual variant, offering the full 106 Hp for a more engaging driving experience. Its performance is commendable for a luxury coupe of the late 1950s, providing confident acceleration and cruising ability.
Fuel Economy
With 10.7 l/100 km, this trim offers the best balance of power and fuel efficiency among the 220 S variants, making it a practical choice for enthusiasts.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless and elegant 'Ponton' styling
- • Robust and smooth inline-six engine
- • High-quality interior materials and craftsmanship for its era
- • Comfortable ride ideal for long journeys
- • Significant historical and collector's value
- • Good visibility from the cabin
Cons:
- • Performance is modest by modern standards (e.g., drum brakes)
- • Lack of modern safety features (no airbags, ABS, etc.)
- • Fuel consumption is high compared to contemporary vehicles
- • Maintenance and parts can be expensive for a classic car
- • Hydrak system can be complex to maintain
- • Steering can feel vague by modern standards
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W128 Sedan: April, 1958 - August, 1959).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | Ponton |
| Generation: | W180 II Coupe |
| Modification (Engine): | 220 S (106 Hp) |
| Start of production: | August, 1957 |
| End of production: | October, 1959 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 106 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 48.3 Hp/l [50mm less] |
| Torque: | 172 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 180 III / 180.924 More details about the engine M 180 III / 180.924 |
| Engine displacement: | 2195 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 11.9 l |
| Coolant: | 11.4 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 72.8 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 8.7:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 10.7 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 17 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 160 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 12.7 kg/Hp, 78.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.8 kg/Nm, 127.4 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 16.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1350 |
| Max. weight: | 1790 |
| Max load: | 440 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 64 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4700 mm mm [50mm less] |
| Width: | 1790 mm mm [50mm more] |
| Height: | 1530 mm mm [30mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2700 mm mm [120mm less] |
| Front track: | 1430 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1470 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
Behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz Ponton. How does it handle on the road?