Mercedes-Benz E-Class I (W120/W121) gallery (1953–1962)

First generation executive Mercedes-Benz W120/W121 'Ponton' series, manufactured from 1953 to 1962 as the historic origin of the E-Class line.

All photos 1286 I (W120/W121) 6 1953–1962 II (W110/W111) 7 1961–1968 III (W114/W115) 33 1968–1976 IV (W123) 72 1975–1986 V (W124) 60 1984–1997 VI (W210) 19 1995–2003 VII (W211) 118 2002–2009 VIII (W212) 472 2009–2016 IX (W213) 255 2016–2023 X (W214) 67 2023

1024 x 768 66 Ponton (1953-1962)

1280 x 960 67 Ponton (1953-1962)

1024 x 768 64 Ponton (1953-1962)

1024 x 768 66 Ponton (1953-1962)

1280 x 960 71 Ponton (1953-1962)

1280 x 960 62 Ponton (1953-1962)

The Mercedes-Benz W120 and W121 series, manufactured from 1953 through 1962 and commercially marketed under the 180 and 190 model names, represent the historic lineage ancestor of the modern E-Class. Affectionately nicknamed 'Ponton' due to its unibody pontoon-style exterior styling with fully integrated front and rear fenders, the design departed completely from pre-war separate-fender running board automobiles. This structural architecture delivered vastly improved torsional rigidity, reduced overall vehicle curb weight, and created a remarkably spacious passenger cabin with superior acoustic damping.

Powertrain choices included dependable 1.8-liter M136 and 1.9-liter M121 gasoline four-cylinders alongside OM636 and OM621 diesel engines (180 D, 190 D), which established Mercedes-Benz's global reputation for diesel endurance and taxicab fleet longevity. Power was delivered to the rear wheels via a column-mounted four-speed manual transmission. Mid-cycle technical and styling refinements in 1959 and 1961 updated front grille treatments, interior materials, and braking components before making way for the Heckflosse generation.