Mercedes Convertible 220 S 1956-58 / 220 S 1958-59 / 220 SE 1958-60
Engine
In-line six-cylinder
Weight
Approx. 160 kg
Displacement
2195 cm³
Bore * stroke
80 * 72,8 mm
Crankshaft
Multi-layer bearing, fourfold
Cylinder head
Aluminum
Compression
7,6/8,7/8,7 : 1
Engine control
OHC (Duplex-chain)
Mixture formation
2 downdraft carburetor/mech. injection pump
Tank capacity
62 liter
Cooling
Oil-coolant heat exchanger
Lubrication
Pressure circulation
Torque
162/172/186 Nm at 3500/3500/3800 rpm
Max. power
74/78/85 kW (100/106/115 HP)
Rated speed
4800/5000 rpm
Powertrain
Front engine with rear drive
Clutch
Single disc, dry semi automatic (since 1957)
Transmission
Four-speed, fully synchronised
Cardan shaft
Divided
Front suspension
Triangle-transverse arm
Rear suspension
Simple joint-swing axle
Steering
Ball steering
Wheelbase
2700 mm
Brakes
Drums, first cast iron, later on alu-composite casting and brake booster
Tyres
6.70 - 13
Length
4700 mm
Width
1740 mm
Height
1560 mm
Basic weight
Approx. 1450 kg
Top speed
Approx. 160/160/165 km/h
Manufactured
1956 - 1960
Electric system
12 V
Sales price
21.500 - 24.000 DM
Already before the windshield, the analogy ends with the 220 S. Because of this there is no two-doors, all these parts can be designed more to the special nature of the convertible. This also will include, underlined by a trim strip, very gentle hip bend immediately after the wide door and before the rear axle, which is not to be found in the limousine. The entire rear end will be softer and smoother sloping. Typical for the Mercedes design of those years, are the reminiscences of the new styling modes without too much harmonization.
While convertibles in case of vehicles with heavy framework do not differ particularly in curb weight from other types of construction, the increase in weight is with self-supporting bodies significantly higher. An aggravating factor is to accommodate the stabilizing elements in the remaining chassis without to lift the vehicle floor. Also, the plant can not afford to bring to the market after the legendary predecessor, a not quite rigid body. Remain so for sporty performances less opportunities. There it has the later following coupe version a little easier.