Mercedes-Benz W128 buyer's guide

The first fuel-injected Mercedes — the 220SE Pontons.

Years: 1958–1960 · Models: 220SE sedan, 220SE coupe, 220SE cabriolet

Overview

The W128 took the 220S Ponton and gave it the first fuel-injection system fitted to a production Mercedes, making the 220SE the technical flagship of the late 1950s. Sedans are rare; the coupe (830 built) and cabriolet (1,112 built) are rarer and carry the series' value. These are transitional cars — pre-war in feel under the skin in places, modern in their fuel system — and they reward specialist knowledge.

Engines

The 2.2-litre M127 six with a two-plunger mechanical injection pump, producing about 115 horsepower (120 in later tune).

What to check

• The early injection pump: it is a specialist item, so confirm the car starts hot and cold, idles evenly, and does not dilute its oil with fuel.
• Ponton unit-body rust — floors, sills, jacking points, and the front subframe — as on all Pontons.
• The Hydrak automatic clutch, if fitted: an unusual system whose correct function should be demonstrated, not described.
• On coupes and cabriolets, wood, chrome, and (on the cabriolet) the top and its well — the restoration cost centres of the two-door cars.
• Completeness of W128-specific details, which are far scarcer than W180 parts despite the family resemblance.

Values

The coupe and cabriolet carry the series, with the cabriolet ahead; sedans are the connoisseur's bargain. Originality and a working, correct injection system are worth more than fresh paint, because so few cars retain both.

Buying tips

Budget for the injection pump's specialist attention if its history is unknown, and verify the car's identity on its data card — with values concentrated in so few cars, correct details are the substance of the price.

See the 19 W128 cars currently listed.