Historical Market Segment:
Luxury compact sedan/coupe, representing Mercedes-Benz's entry into a more accessible segment of the luxury market in the mid-to-late 1950s.
Key Competitors:
BMW 501/502 (larger, but similar luxury focus), Opel Kapitän, Ford Taunus, Volkswagen Beetle (mass-market, but a benchmark).
Engineering Philosophy:
Robust engineering, build quality, and Mercedes-Benz's signature safety and reliability for its era. Distinctive styling.
Manual Benefit:
Provides essential technical data for the preservation and restoration of these classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles, crucial for owners and specialists.
Powertrain Systems:
Engine (M121), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, Transmission (4-speed Manual), Driveshaft, Rear Axle Assembly
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (Independent, Coil Springs, Wishbones), Rear Suspension (Independent, Swing Axles, Coil Springs), Steering System (Recirculating Ball)
Braking Systems:
Front Drum Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Hydraulic System, Parking Brake
Electrical Systems:
12V Electrical System, Lighting, Ignition Switch, Dashboard Instruments, Starter Motor, Generator (Bosch), Battery, Wiring Diagrams
Body Chassis:
Chassis Construction, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement (Oil, Air, Fuel), Spark Plug Service, Ignition Timing Adjustment, Valve Adjustment, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Replacement, Lubrication Points
Engine Repair:
Engine Removal/Installation, Cylinder Head Overhaul, Piston and Connecting Rod Service, Crankshaft Bearing Service, Camshaft Service, Oil Pump Service
Transmission Repair:
Transmission Disassembly/Assembly, Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Overhaul, Differential Service
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock Absorber Replacement, Ball Joint Replacement, Tie Rod End Replacement, Steering Gearbox Adjustment/Overhaul
Brake System Repair:
Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Wheel Cylinder Service, Master Cylinder Service, Brake Line Replacement, Drum Machining
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Component Testing, Wiring Harness Diagnosis, Starter/Alternator Testing, Lighting System Fault Finding
Bodywork Repair:
Panel Replacement, Dent Repair, Door Mechanism Adjustment, Trim Installation
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Charts, Common Faults and Solutions
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers disassembly, reassembly, specifications, tolerances, and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Camshaft (OHC)
Displacement:
1.8 liters (1790 cc)
Horsepower Output:
Approximately 65-75 hp (depending on variant and tuning)
Torque Output:
Approximately 130-145 Nm (96-107 lb-ft)
Carburetion:
Single Solex downdraft carburetor (e.g., Solex 34 PAITA)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though leaded was common, engine designed for it)
Ignition System:
Distributor-based, coil ignition (Bosch)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months.
Grease Points Lubrication:
Regular chassis lubrication required at approximately 10,000 km (6,000 miles) intervals.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Recommended every 10,000 km (6,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/CD or equivalent (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate). Refer to manual for precise specification as oils have evolved.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual will specify approved types.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Manual will specify correct type.
Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil, likely SAE 90 Hypoid. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor wear, fuel pump diaphragm issues, kingpins and bushings in the front suspension, rear axle oil seals, brake system components.
Engine Tendencies:
Oil consumption over time, timing chain stretch, potential for valve seat recession if running unleaded fuel without additives.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, door bottoms, floor pans, sills, around window seals.