The Mercedes-Benz "Ponton" series is a variety of Daimler-Benz car models, launched from July 1953, dominated by sedans / saloons, and nicknamed "Ponton", the German word for "pontoon", referring to the slab. general shape of cars on three sides - a change in post-war car design, also known as the ponton style. In addition to the obvious visual innovation, the design of the Benz 'Ponton' car introduced changes in the construction that significantly improved the automotive safety of passengers, through better protection against collisions. Pontons constituted 80% of Mercedes-Benz's car production between 1953 and 1959.

The 1953 Mercedes-Benz W120, marketed as 180 four-cylinder sedans, was the second entirely new series of Mercedes passenger cars since World War II, after the introduction in 1951 of the flagship W186 Type 300 “Adenauer” and replaced Type 170 and Type S. designed before the war. Contrasting very visibly with the distinctive traditional fenders on that body model and on the previous ones, the 'Pontons' were Mercedes' first monocoque and unitary body production models.

Mercedes expanded the basic Ponton model into a diversified line, developing several series based on the 180, introducing more engines and stretching the body. The six-cylinder models received a longer nose, and the 'S' models also had a longer passenger compartment, offering more legroom.

A six-cylinder coupe and convertible were also derived, and a reduced floor of the four-cylinder sedan was also modified to serve as the structure for the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL roadster.

The 'Ponton' salons were the main production models of the automaker until 1959 (although some models lasted until 1962) and were replaced by the "Heckflosse" or "Fintail" models

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