Introduced in 1956, the 220S saloon was one of a trio of new models featuring unitary construction bodyshells employing large, box-section side-members - hence the term 'Ponton' - the others being the 190 and 219. All-round coil-sprung independent suspension had long been a fixture of the Mercedes-Benz range, and that of the newcomers benefited from the newly developed single-pivot rear swing axle. Short-wheelbase Coupé and Cabriolet versions of the 220S soon followed. Luxuriously equipped in the best Daimler-Benz tradition, these superbly constructed Granturismos were priced some 70% above the 220S saloon.

In 1958 the 220 range was updated with a fuel-injected version of the 2.2-liter overhead-camshaft six, becoming the 220SE. Maximum power increased from 106 to 115bhp, and while top speed remained unchanged at around 100mph, there was a useful improvement in acceleration, the 0-60mph time reducing by two seconds. By the time production ceased in November 1960, fewer than