- Home
- Brands
Mercedes-Benz- W188
- 1956 W188 II Roadster
Mercedes-Benz1956 Mercedes-Benz W188 II Roadster Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1956 |
| Production Years: | 1956 - 1958 discontinued in 1958 |
Precise measurements of the 1956 Mercedes-Benz W188 II Roadster, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4700 mm185.0 in15.4 ft |
| Width: | 1916 mm75.4 in6.3 ft |
| Height: | 1510 mm59.4 in5.0 ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 1780 kg3924 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 2040 kg4497 lbs |
The Mercedes-Benz W188 II Roadster, produced between 1956 and 1958, is a classic luxury sports car that epitomizes mid-century automotive elegance and engineering. This generation of the W188 series features an impressive size profile with a length of 4700 mm (185 inches), a width of 1916 mm (75.4 inches), and a height of 1510 mm (59.4 inches). The car's dimensions provide a sleek yet substantial presence on the road, underscoring its sporty yet refined character. Weighing in at a curb weight of 1780 kg (3924 lbs), with a maximum weight rating of 2040 kg (4497 lbs), the W188 II Roadster combines robust build quality with smooth driving dynamics, typical of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship of the era. As a two-seater roadster, its design emphasizes both luxury and performance, offering an open-air driving experience coupled with strong structural integrity. The W188 II is not only notable for its dimensions but also for representing a significant period in Mercedes-Benz history, showcasing advances in styling and automotive technology of the late 1950s. Whether you're a classic car enthusiast or a potential collector, the W188 II Roadster stands out as an automotive icon with a well-balanced size and weight that contribute to its timeless appeal.
Discover the standout features that make the 1956 Mercedes-Benz W188 II Roadster a leader in its class
Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.
The Mercedes-Benz W188 II Roadster measures 4700 mm (approximately 185 inches) in length, 1916 mm (about 75.4 inches) in width, and stands 1510 mm (approximately 59.4 inches) tall. These dimensions give the car its classic, elongated roadster profile that combines elegance with sporty appeal.
The W188 II Roadster has a curb weight of 1780 kg (around 3924 lbs), which was relatively heavy for roadsters of its era. This weight is attributed to its luxurious build quality, advanced engineering, and the inclusion of high-end materials. Compared to lighter, more minimalist roadsters popular at the time, the W188 offered greater presence and stability on the road, albeit with a trade-off in agility.
The maximum weight rating for the W188 II Roadster is 2040 kg (approximately 4497 lbs). This maximum weight includes passengers, cargo, and fuel. Staying within this limit is crucial for the car's handling characteristics, safety, and mechanical reliability.
The W188 II Roadster, with its length of 4700 mm (185 inches) and width of 1916 mm (75.4 inches), can fit into most standard modern garages. Standard garage dimensions in many regions typically accommodate vehicles up to about 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 2.4 meters (8 feet) in width. However, clearance for opening doors and moving around the vehicle may be somewhat tight due to its width and sporty design.
The W188 II Roadster represents a refined evolution over the first-generation W188. While both generations share a similar luxury roadster DNA, the W188 II model saw slight dimensional adjustments and enhancements in styling and engineering. Although the original W188 was slightly shorter and narrower, the W188 II's increased length and width allowed for a more comfortable cabin and improved road presence.
Dimensionally, the W188 II Roadster was more imposing than many of its contemporaries. Its 4700 mm length and 1916 mm width surpassed several rivals like the Jaguar XK140 and Ferrari 250 GT in overall size. This made the Mercedes-Benz not only a statement piece of classic luxury but also provided more spacious interiors and enhanced ride quality compared to smaller or lighter roadsters of the same era.
The W188 II Roadster's substantial length (4700 mm) and width (1916 mm) contribute to a stable and composed ride at cruising speeds, consistent with its luxury grand touring focus. The car's weight of 1780 kg adds to its road-hugging characteristics but may reduce nimbleness compared to lighter sports cars. The overall dimensions make for comfortable seating and smooth highway driving, though the trade-off is less agility in tight corners compared to smaller sports cars.
As a two-seater luxury roadster, the W188 II offers an intimate cabin with focused driver and passenger comfort. The interior space benefits from the car's dimensions, providing ample legroom and shoulder space given its 1916 mm width. The 1510 mm height allows for a low-slung, sporty seating position. While it is not designed for rear passengers or cargo-heavy use, the cabin is thoughtfully designed for luxurious, stylish motoring typical of 1950s grand touring cars.
The W188 II built upon the sleek, elegant lines of the original model but incorporated subtle size increases to enhance road presence and comfort. Its longer wheelbase and increased width gave it a more modern, confident stance while retaining the classic roadster aesthetic. The size and styling improvements helped cement the W188 II’s legacy as a pinnacle of 1950s automotive luxury and craftsmanship.
The W188 II Roadster's curb weight of 1780 kg (3924 lbs) means that any restoration or maintenance work must factor in specialized equipment capable of safely supporting this luxury grand tourer. The substantial weight, contributed by its robust engineering and high-quality materials, means heavier components and stronger support structures. This often results in higher costs and a need for experienced specialists when restoring this classic vehicle to preserve its structural integrity and performance.
