The 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A presents an elegant blend of post-war German engineering and restrained design. Finished in gray with a red leather interior, this two-window Cabriolet A is one of just 1,278 built between 1951 and 1955. The 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A remains an intriguing look into an era when craftsmanship and simplicity carried equal weight.
Exterior Details of the 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A
The car was refinished in gray in the early 1980s, paired with a folding black convertible top and bright landau bars. Chrome bumpers, a prominent grille, and free-standing driving lights give it presence without unnecessary excess. Rear-hinged doors and running boards recall the design language of pre-war models. While the car shows signs of age with a cracked headlight lens and horn issues, it retains an authentic period appearance.
Interior Finish and Appointments
Inside, the cabin is upholstered in red leather with low-back bucket seats up front and a folding rear bench. A polished wood dashboard and wood door caps enhance the warm contrast to the gray exterior. The fittings include an AM/FM radio, a swiveling rearview mirror, and a heater. VDO instruments display speed, fuel, oil pressure, and coolant temperature. The odometer shows only 1k kilometers, though actual mileage remains unknown.
Engine and Transmission of the 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A
Power comes from a 2.2-liter M180 inline-six, producing 80 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque. The engine pairs with a four-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels. Records note rocker arm replacements in 1990, though seepage from the engine and transmission has been observed, alongside cooling system issues. Despite these points, the drivetrain reflects the straightforward mechanical layout of early Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Performance Notes
While not a car built for speed, the 220 Cabriolet A delivers smooth cruising. Drum brakes, swing-axle rear suspension, and worm-and-lever steering complete the period setup. The car rides on 15-inch body-color steel wheels with bright hubcaps, fitted with Michelin tires installed in 2025. Although the suspension rubber shows signs of wear and the brakes pull to the right, the overall mechanical presentation provides insight into how these cars performed when new.
Accessories and Added Details
A set of tan leather Karl Baisch fitted luggage is included in the trunk, reflecting the car’s original touring intent. Records stretching back to the 1960s trace its service life, and the clean Pennsylvania title confirms its current standing.
Summary
The 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A combines classic German craftsmanship with restrained post-war styling. With its gray-over-red presentation, 2.2L inline-six, and four-speed manual, it carries the character of a car meant for elegant travel rather than performance. Decades of history and careful preservation make this Cabriolet A a notable example of its kind.
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Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
