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LOT 334

Selling on Saturday

From the Passport Collection

1953 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A

The recipient of a $400,000 nut-and-bolt restoration
Known history from new
A striking Mercedes that has only been publicly shown once
Accompanied by a copy of the factory build sheet, extensive invoice records, restoration photos, tool roll, and original Karl Baisch luggage set

VIN: 1870120348353

Introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in April 1951, the 220 was one of the first new post-war vehicles for Mercedes-Benz. The 220 featured the return of the inline six-cylinder engine, which displaced 2.2 litres, hence where the "220" namesake would come from and provided an ample 80 horsepower. Styling shared similar queues to that of the pre-war 170, though the headlamps were now fully enclosed in the front fenders. The modern front end was longer and interior furnishings were more lavish. The inline-six was mated to a column-shifted synchronized four-speed manual gearbox which helped provide a fun driving experience. The 220 was offered in two different cabriolet options, the sporty Cabriolet A and the stylish Cabriolet B which offered comfortable seating for four. With undeniable style and plenty of performance to meet the public needs, the 220 marked Mercedes-Benz's return to the market after World War II by offering luxury for the whole family while still providing the level of performance that resonates with the Mercedes-Benz badge.

According to the factory build sheet, known history of this 220 Cabriolet A begins when it was first shipped to the Mercedes-Benz dealer in Zurich, Switzerland on November 2nd, 1953. The first owner would be Rene Hummel of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland on May 5, 1954. It remained in Hummel's ownership until it was sold to Herr R. Dahler of Burgdorf, Switzerland on August 16th, 1973, and then three years later sold to Robert Leveque of Charlottesville, Virginia, United States. Upon his passing, the car would be sold from the Leveque family to a Tennessee-based collector in August 2005.

This 220 would stay under his stewardship for 14 years, during which it would be the recipient of an extensive $400,000 nut-and-bolt restoration. The restoration was entrusted to Mercedes-Benz specialists at Magno Restorations of Ward Hill, Massachusetts, and took place in 2015. Every single part, piece, and surface was addressed, down to refinishing all the sheet metal and bodywork. According to the build sheet, during the restoration, the body and interior were finished in their original color, DB 157 Grey Beige over 653 Green. A new and correct convertible top was also tightly fitted. The striking burled walnut trim, and reconditioned Becker Monaco radio and speakers were fitted. The original numbers-matching six-cylinder engine was re-tuned and serviced as needed, while other mechanical systems such as the transmission, rear axle, central lubrication system, and dashboard instruments were serviced or restored to further complement the high standards.

The Passport Collection would welcome this outstanding Mercedes-Benz into its garages in 2019, where it has since been consistently maintained and serviced in a climate-controlled setting. Accompanying the sale are the aforementioned extensive invoice records, restoration photos, a copy of the factory build sheet, Karl Baisch luggage set, and a tool roll kit. Only shown once publicly since its restoration, it was showcased at the inaugural Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance in 2018, where it was awarded First in Class in the post-WWII class. Examined at the show by noted early Mercedes expert, Alex Dearborn, it was said that he believes this example sets a benchmark for originality, authenticity, and workmanship of all other 220s he has seen.

Wonderfully kept and maintained since its extensive $400,000 restoration was completed, it presents its next owner with a unique opportunity to acquire a 220 Cabriolet A that is ready to be driven onto a plethora of show fields where it will surely garner awards and captivate onlookers.