The Mercedes-Benz W187, specifically the Cabriolet B 220 model, represents a pivotal moment in the post-war recovery of German automotive engineering. Produced between April 1951 and May 1953, this vehicle was not merely a car; it was a symbol of renewed prosperity and a return to luxury for a nation rebuilding after the devastation of World War II. The W187 series, while not widely exported to the United States at the time, established key design and engineering principles that would define Mercedes-Benz for decades to come. It occupied the upper-middle class segment, offering a blend of comfort, style, and engineering prowess that appealed to a discerning clientele.
The Mercedes-Benz W187 Cabriolet B 220
The W187 series was Mercedes-Benz’s first all-new post-war passenger car design. Prior to the W187, Mercedes-Benz had largely been producing updated pre-war designs. The Cabriolet B 220, with its elegant open-top configuration, was a particularly desirable variant. It catered to those seeking a sophisticated and enjoyable driving experience, embodying the spirit of optimism that characterized the early 1950s. The “B” designation denoted a specific trim level and feature set within the W187 range.
Engine & Performance
Powering the W187 Cabriolet B 220 is a 2.2-liter (2195 cm³) inline-six cylinder engine, designated the M180 I / 180.920. This naturally aspirated engine produced 80 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 142 Nm (104.73 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2500 rpm. While these figures may seem modest by modern standards, they were competitive for the era and provided adequate performance for comfortable cruising. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio was 17.8 kg/Hp, or 56.3 Hp/tonne. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 21 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph was achieved in around 20 seconds. The car’s top speed was 140 km/h (86.99 mph). Fuel consumption was rated at 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 km/l), reflecting the technology and expectations of the time. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and utilized a carburetor for fuel delivery.
Design & Features
The W187 Cabriolet B 220 is a classically styled two-door, five-seater cabriolet. Its design is characterized by flowing lines, a prominent grille, and elegant proportions. The body-on-frame construction was typical for the period, providing a robust and durable chassis. The interior was appointed with high-quality materials, reflecting the car’s luxury positioning. Features included comfortable seating, a well-appointed dashboard, and a manually operated convertible top. Safety features were limited by the standards of the early 1950s, consisting primarily of robust construction and reliable braking systems. The car’s dimensions are substantial for its era, measuring 4510 mm (177.56 in) in length, 1685 mm (66.34 in) in width, and 1610 mm (63.39 in) in height. The wheelbase is 2845 mm (112.01 in). The curb weight of the vehicle is 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs) and a maximum load capacity of 365 kg (804.69 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W187 |
| Generation | W187 Cabriolet B |
| Type (Engine) | 220 (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 1951 |
| End of production | May, 1953 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 21.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25.9 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 9.2 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 21 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 21 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 20 sec |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 36.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 2500 rpm (104.73 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 180 I / 180.920 |
| Engine displacement | 2195 cm3 (133.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72.8 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 6.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs) |
| Max load | 365 kg (804.69 lbs) |
| Length | 4510 mm (177.56 in) |
| Width | 1685 mm (66.34 in) |
| Height | 1610 mm (63.39 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2845 mm (112.01 in) |
| Front track | 1315 mm (51.77 in) |
| Rear track | 1435 mm (56.5 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Drum |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
The Mercedes-Benz W187 Cabriolet B 220 remains a highly sought-after classic car, representing a significant chapter in the company’s history. Its combination of elegant styling, robust engineering, and post-war symbolism continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
