1960 Mercedes-Benz 220S Sedan

Description

First seen in 1959, the new Fintail range of Mercedes-Benz saloons replaced the now dated lines of the previous Ponton range with a new squared-off shape that was lower, wider and drew its nickname from the American-influenced wings at the rear.  The range initially consisted of six-cylinder (W111) models only but from 1961, these were joined by the four-cylinder (W110) and flagship 300SE (W112) models.  Powered by a single overhead camshaft engine given the internal code M180, the 220 had twin Solex downdraught carburettors and 95bhp on tap, while the 220S benefited from twin choke carburettors (giving 110bhp at 5000rpm) along with servo-assisted brakes and different gearing.  There was also a fuel injected variant, badged the 220SE, and exterior changes shared by the more upmarket S/SE models included twin rear bumpers, full-size hubcaps and additional chrome trim.  The 220S was capable of a very respectable top speed of 103mph and, with the standard four-speed manual, decent acceleration although the optional Hydrak automatic clutch blunted the performance somewhat.  With all the traditional Mercedes-Benz virtues like solid engineering, excellent build quality, advanced safety features and mechanical reliability, the Finnies are an inexpensive, practical classic saloon still capable of being enjoyed in modern traffic conditions.  Produced between 1959 and 1965, the 220S is arguably the best all round package in the Finnie range and a total of 65,886 were built in this period.