1958 Mercedes-Benz 180A

Description

The Model 180 or “Ponton” generation of post-war Mercedes-Benz cars, which debuted in 1953,  were very significant. They represented Mercedes’ first unibody-constructed machine, with sensuously rounded body panels welded to the frame to create a strong foundation with lighter weight. Combined with the double-wishbone front suspension and swing axle with trailing arm rear suspension, Model 180 vehicles possessed a more stable driving feel, and a higher performance envelope — the most famous “Roundie” being the 1955 190 SL sports car.

As production continued, Mercedes-Benz created an entire family around the W120 and W121 chassis, with both diesel and gas engines. And in 1957, the 180a debuted as an intermediate version. This four-door saloon wore the signature curved body, a 65-hp four-cylinder engine, and additional chrome trim and larger tail lights.

This 1958 Mercedes-Benz 180a is both unique and very clean. It was restored in 2008, and though black at the time, it was repainted the original gray.

Highlights 

• Unique and restored 1958 Mercedes-Benz 180a 

• 1.8-liter M121 four-cylinder rated at 65hp 

• Column-shift four-speed manual transmission 

• Refinished in PPG 39908 Graphite Gray with a Gray interior 

• Blaupunkt radio 

Features 

• 13-inch wheels with 155/80R13 Bridgestone tires 

• Reconditioned fuel tank 

• Electronic ignition upgrade 

• Wears both OEM and aftermarket replacement parts  

Known Imperfections 

• Shows wear commensurate with its age 

• Interior and exterior brightwork shows pitting 

• Parking brake and heater box cables are frozen 

• Radio doesn’t work (spare radio included)

• Underneath floorpans show surface rust 

• Minor paint imperfections and chips on front end 

• Minor oil leak 

Included 

• Keys 

• Owner’s manual 

• Large binder of maintenance records 

• Parts, including OEM, aftermarket, and Mercedes Classic Center replacement parts 

Ownership History

The consignor states, “It is my understanding that this car was purchased in Germany and driven there on a vacation before being shipped to the U.S. The original owners were a couple from Shelbyville, Tennessee that I knew who sold the car to a man that had a Gulf Oil service station. I bought the car in 1969 as its third owner. Several years later, I sold it to my college roommate, and it then got stored in his grandmother’s garage for almost 30 years, after which it was given back to me and brought back to life.

Before my first ownership the car was black, but when we repainted it in 2008 it was painted in the original gray. The car was restored in 2008 and that is documented in the Jan./Feb. 2008 issue of the Mercedes Benz Club magazine The Star.”