Description
The Mercedes-Benz 220 Sb Automatic was a refined and relatively rare variant of the Ponton-series six-cylinder saloon, combining improved engine performance with the convenience of an automatic transmission. Introduced in the late 1950s, it reflected Mercedes-Benz’s cautious but deliberate move toward greater driving comfort at a time when automatic gearboxes were still unusual in European cars.
Power came from the 2.2-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine developed for the 220 Sb, producing approximately 100 horsepower. This represented a clear improvement over the earlier 220 b, giving the car stronger acceleration and more relaxed cruising ability. When paired with the automatic transmission, performance was smooth rather than brisk, with an emphasis on refinement and ease of driving. The automatic gearbox was designed to deliver gentle, unobtrusive shifts, making the car particularly comfortable in town traffic and on long-distance journeys.
The car retained the Ponton unitary body construction, which integrated the chassis and body into a single structure. This provided good rigidity and a solid, reassuring feel on the road. Suspension consisted of independent double wishbones with coil springs at the front and a swing-axle rear suspension with coil springs. This arrangement prioritised ride comfort on uneven road surfaces, though it required measured driving at higher speeds due to the handling characteristics of the swing axle. Hydraulic drum brakes were fitted on all four wheels and were adequate for the car’s performance and intended use.
Styling followed the familiar Ponton design language, with smooth, rounded bodywork and fully integrated wings. The appearance was conservative and dignified, projecting solidity and professionalism rather than luxury excess. Chrome detailing was restrained, and there were no obvious external differences to distinguish the automatic version from the manual, in keeping with Mercedes-Benz’s understated design philosophy.
Inside, the cabin reflected Mercedes-Benz’s focus on durability, comfort and functional design. Seating was upright and supportive, trimmed in robust materials selected for long-term use. The dashboard was simple and clearly laid out, with easy-to-read instruments and logically arranged controls. The automatic transmission reduced driver effort and contributed to a calm, unhurried driving environment.
On the road, the Mercedes-Benz 220 Sb Automatic delivered a smooth and composed driving experience. The more powerful six-cylinder engine made the car easier to drive in modern traffic than earlier Ponton models, while the automatic gearbox encouraged relaxed progress rather than spirited driving. Steering was heavy at low speeds but stable and predictable once underway, reinforcing the car’s touring-oriented character.
The 220 Sb Automatic appealed to professionals, senior executives and official users who valued comfort, refinement and ease of use. Because automatic transmissions were expensive and relatively uncommon in Europe at the time, production numbers were low, making this version considerably rarer than its manual counterpart.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 220 Sb Automatic is appreciated as a distinctive and historically significant Ponton model. Valued for its smooth six-cylinder engine, early adoption of automatic transmission technology and solid post-war engineering, it stands as an example of Mercedes-Benz’s gradual shift toward greater driving comfort while maintaining its core principles of durability and conservative design.