1/18 Mercedes Benz Ponton Black Plastic Model Kit

Product ID: 80-8973

Overview
Scale: 1:18

Description
The up-to-the-minute 180 range, given the internal works designation W 120, was introduced in September 1953. The extremely positive response to the first new design to come from Mercedes-Benz after the war can be primarily attributed to three factors. To begin with, this completely new vehicle had an integral body and frame - an absolute first in the history of the company. Also, the type 180 appeared with a modern Ponton body distinguished by its rounded lines. Flanges are now only visible on the fully integrated mudguards; the running boards and stand-alone headlamps have disappeared. Only the classic radiator grille remains. This contemporary Ponton shape reduces the aerodynamic drag, which in turn reduces the wind noise. At the same time the interior is more roomy and visibility is appreciably improved. Apart from the unusually modern concept for the conditions at that time, there was also a third criterion: the handling performance of the 180, which was far superior to that of its predecessor, the 170. The tuning spoke for itself - the competition could hardly offer such comfortable and vibration-free running. Many features of the interior originated in the 170, but due to the fine workmanship and clear lay-out this was no detriment. The only aspect that gave rise to criticism was that it had the same 4-cylinder engine as its predecessor, the M 136 that delivered 52 bhp, but this in no way diminished the success of the 180. The Ponton, which also included the type 180 D (D = Diesel) that came out in 1954, represented a milestone for Mercedes-Benz. The W 120, on the one hand, established the legend of long life and economy, and on the other, thanks to the unit assembly system, it effected the change-over from manual motor manufacture to mass-production. In the 9 years of its existence over 440,000 examples of the Ponton range were built.