Mercedes-Benz reintroduced six-cylinder models to its range in 1951 with the 220 and 300 types, both of which were shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the spring of that year.

Both featured single overhead camshaft engines with the valves set across the head, rather than in line, and actuated by rockers.

The 220 was powered by a 2,195cc six-cylinder engine producing 80bhp at 4,600rpm, good enough for a top speed of 100mph with acceleration to match, while the gearbox was an all-synchromesh four-speeder with column change.

A separate chassis was retained for these models, which were replaced in 1956 by a new range featuring unitary construction bodyshells employing large, box-section side-members – hence the term ‘Ponton’.

All-round coil-sprung independent suspension had long been a fixture of the Mercedes-Benz range, and that of the newcomers benefitted from the newly developed single-pivot rear swing axle.

A shorter wheelbase was adopted for the cabriolet model that appeared in ...