Design of a replacement for the two-door Mercedes Pontons15000 began in 1957. As most of the chassis and drive-train were to be unified with the saloon, the scope was focused on the exterior styling. Some of the mock-ups and prototypes show that Mercedes-Benz attempted to give the two-door car a front styling almost identical to theW113 Pagoda SL, but ultimately favoured the work of engineer Paul Bracq. The rear bodywork however, persisted, and thus, though officially still called a fintail the rear end design had no chrome fin highlights.
Production began in late 1960, and in February of the next year the coupe was premiered in Stuttgart for the 75thanniversary of the opening of Mercedes-Benz Museum. The convertible followed at the Frankfurt auto show a few months later; the car was almost identical to the coupe, with the soft-top roof folded into a recess behind the rear seat and covered by a tightly fitting bag. Unlike the previous generation of two-door ponton series, there was only one model for the 2-door vehicle, the 220SE on both versions, with the identical M127 2195 cc engine. Options included a sliding sunroof for the coupe, automatic transmission, power steering, and individual rear seats.
The 1964 example offered here is described as a beautifully and recently restored 220 SEb Pillarless coupe. Said to have a fully refurbished interior and body and said to be a very solid example, the car is equipped with original wheels, plus chrome embellishers and a period radio.
With just 4 previous owners from new, the car is said to drive superbly with smooth straight-six cylinder engine and effortless power steering. Offered complete with service history, which includes a letter on file from previous owner detailing engine work carried out.
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