1962 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE

Number: HLM64-4B10

Year: 2023 - 02/05

Collection: 70 Years Special Edition

Born: 1961, Stuttgart, Germany

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz

Sleek fin tail design, 2.2L inline-six, fuel injection—melding luxury and power in an iconic automotive masterpiece.

Series production of the 4-door saloon began in August 1959, which made its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in the autumn. Initially the series consisted of the 220b, 220Sb, and 220SEb. These replaced the (W105) 219, the (W180) 220S and the (W128) 220SE Ponton saloons respectively. The 220b was an entry-level version with little chrome trim, simple hubcaps, and basic interior trim that lacked pockets in the doors. 

All models shared the 2195 cc M127 straight-six engine carried over from the previous generation, producing 95 hp (71 kW) at 4800 rpm and capable of accelerating the heavy car to 160 km/h (155 if fitted with optional automatic gearbox). The top of the range 220SEb featured Bosch fuel injection producing 120 hp (89 kW) at 4800 rpm, with a top speed of 172 km/h (107 mph) (168 km/h (104 mph) for auto) and a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) time of 14 seconds.