1956 Mercedes-Benz W180 II Sedan Dimensions, Size & Specs

This generation of the Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180 sedan has a curb weight between 1325 and 1340 kilograms (2921 to 2954 pounds). Its maximum permissible weight, including passengers and cargo, is 1790 kilograms (3946 pounds). These weight specifications ensure the vehicle maintains robust structural integrity while delivering a smooth and stable driving experience.

The W180 II Sedan's moderate dimensions allow it to fit comfortably in a standard residential garage, which typically measures about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and around 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length. With the vehicle's width at 1740 mm (68.5 inches) and length up to 4750 mm (187 inches), the car can be accommodated in most standard garages, though careful maneuvering is advisable given the relatively tight clearances.

The W180 II Ponton is slightly larger than its predecessor, offering enhanced interior space and a more refined exterior presence. The increase in length to up to 4750 mm (187 inches) and slight adjustments in width and height allowed for better passenger comfort and improved road presence. This evolution reflected Mercedes-Benz's response to market trends favoring slightly larger and more luxurious sedans, making it a more spacious and premium offering than previous Ponton models.

When compared to contemporaries like the BMW 501 or the Jaguar Mark 1, the Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180 II stands out with its solid construction and classic elegance. Dimensionally, it is similar in length and width to these models, but tends to have a slightly more conservative width at 1740 mm (68.5 inches) compared to some wider British sedans of the time, balancing road stability with urban practicality.

While the precise interior dimensions such as legroom and headroom vary slightly, the W180 II Ponton sedan was designed to comfortably seat four to five passengers. Its exterior size and classic three-box body style allow for adequate rear legroom and headroom, particularly for its era. This makes it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys, maintaining a blend of comfort and classic compact sedan dimensions.

With a height of 1560 millimeters (61.4 inches), the W180 II Sedan maintains a relatively low center of gravity, contributing to stable handling characteristics, especially at the moderate speeds typical of cars produced in this period. Its not-too-tall stature also facilitates easier parking, making it user-friendly for urban environments and garages with limited clearance.

At a curb weight ranging from 1325 to 1340 kilograms (2921 to 2954 pounds), the W180 II is moderate in weight relative to other luxury sedans of the 1950s. This weight reflects sturdy construction with classic heavy gauge steel, contributing to a solid, safe ride but also impacting fuel efficiency compared to lighter contemporaries. The weight balances durability with performance expectations of the time.

This model's maximum permissible weight is 1790 kilograms (3946 pounds), which means it can accommodate passengers and cargo up to approximately 450 to 465 kilograms (992 to 1025 pounds) beyond its curb weight. This capacity is typical for sedans of its class and era, allowing for comfortable passenger occupancy alongside luggage or small cargo loads.

The Mercedes-Benz Ponton W180 II Sedan, produced from 1956 to 1959, represents a significant step in automotive design and engineering for Mercedes-Benz. It introduced improvements in styling and mechanical sophistication over the original Ponton series, featuring a more spacious interior and refined performance. The vehicle is recognized for its classic post-war design elegance, its sturdy build quality, and representing luxury driving of its time. It holds an important place in Mercedes-Benz history as a predecessor to more modern luxury sedans.