1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 Saloon

Description

Mercedes-Benz introduced the Ponton (German for pontoon, a reference to the new slab-sided styling) series of saloons in July 1953, replacing the 170 series and becoming the mainstay of production for the Three-Pointed Star for the remainder of the decade. The four-cylinder 180 model was joined in June 1954 by the first six-cylinder variant, the 220a, featuring a longer wheelbase, larger rear glass and additional brightwork. In 1956, Stuttgart extended the model line-up with the addition of the 190, a better equipped version that in essence was a combination of the 180's body shell with the M121 overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine from the sporty 190SL. With a single Solex 32 PAITA carburettor, this unit developed a solid 75 bhp at 4600 rpm and combined good acceleration with excellent fuel economy. The 190 had finned drum brakes and new single-pivot swing axles at the rear for better handling. Distinguished from the cheaper 180 through the use of additional chrome, the 190 also benefited from additional cabin equipment, including a reading light, twin sun visors and a heater blower. Interestingly, the Ponton was the first Mercedes-Benz car assembled in Australia and Victorian Premier Henry Bolte was pictured at the opening of the assembly line at Port Melbourne in March 1959 alongside the first example to roll off the line. In total, some 61,345 190 saloons were built between 1956 and 1959 and these beautifully made cars really are a classic that can be enjoyed on a daily basis.