Taking its name from the German word for “pontoon” on account of its bulbous style of bodywork, the Mercedes-Benz Ponton series first debuted in 1953, marking the German marque’s second completely new automotive design since the conclusion of WW2, as well as its first-ever monocoque, unitary body production model. Produced for only a decade, the Ponton models bore a distinctive mid-century appearance and an unmistakable design that was eventually phased out in favor of the more modern W110 (and W111). These rolling pieces of history have become increasingly rare — even more so pristine specimens such as the 1960 example that’s currently for sale in Germany.
Though badged as a 220S, this 220SE packs a 105-hp inline-six under the hood that’s been mated to a four-speed manual transmission — a powertrain that’s only seen 58,000 kilometers (36,000 miles). In addition to the ultra-rare sunroof option, the 220SE also boasts a Becker Grand Prix radio and an automatic antenna. This stunning Mercedes has also been paired with an equally pristine Austermann Type Knospe-K camping trailer from the same era.
Capable of comfortably accomodating eight guests, the trailer — which is one of only 1,300 units ever produced and one of the very few surviving examples — features a rare steel sliding roof with the Webasto wind deflector, reclining seats, and a 6.5’ x 6.5’ bed. Sold with a matching awning, the trailer measures just 4.5’ in width when folded closed, though opens up to just over 7’. Now sporting matching brown leather upholstery and matching sky blue paint jobs, both the car and trailer have undergone extensive ground-up restorations that have seen them meticulously refurbished inside and out.
Priced at €119,000 (~$132,700), this 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220SE “Ponton” & Austermann Knospe K Trailer are currently being sold through exotic automotive dealer Mechatronik in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, roughly 20 miles north of Stuttgart.
