Mercedes-Benz 120 1953–1959 car dimensions: 4460 mm long, 1740 mm wide and 1560 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,150 kg. Braked towing is 1,200 kg.
The cabin has separately adjustable heating and ventilation for the driver and front passenger. Bucket seats are standard in front with a bench seat optional. Reclining seats and a sunroof are available as options. Basic instruments cover speed, fuel, temperature and oil warnings. An optional radio can be fitted. No electronic driver aids appear in the equipment lists.
The boot is spacious for the era and much larger than on the previous model. It holds the spare wheel and provides good everyday luggage room.
Payload is 450 kg. Braked towing capacity reaches 1200 kg and unbraked towing is 640 kg. The model saw frequent taxi use.
The cabin feels roomy for five with a clean three-box layout that cuts wind noise. Soft plush seats let you sink in for a sofa-like ride. Separately adjustable heating and ventilation keep driver and front passenger comfortable. Optional sliding sunroof lets in light. High seating position and solid build make long trips pleasant.
Petrol fuel use 8.7 l per 100 km.
56-litre rear fuel tank.
Hydraulic four-wheel drum brakes.
Rigid passenger cell with front and rear crumple zones.
Optional fabric or steel sliding sunroof.
Fuel economy sits at 8.7 litres per 100 km for the petrol version under the period test method. The tank holds 56 litres at the rear. Diesel models use less.
Servicing follows standard lubrication and filter checks listed in the owner handbook. Regular workshop visits keep the side-valve or later overhead-cam engine and swing-axle chassis reliable.
Safety rests on the unibody floor assembly that forms a strong passenger cell. Front and rear sections deform in impacts to absorb energy. Later cars add padded dash, cushioned steering wheel and dual-catch door locks that stop doors flying open. Belts were not standard.
Keeping the car means watching for rust in the unit body and maintaining the independent suspension and recirculating-ball steering. Parts and manuals remain available through specialists.
Length 4460 mm, Width 1740 mm, Height 1560 mm, Wheelbase 2650 mm (120 1953–1959)
Sources: manufacturer data, Mercedes-Benz public archive, mbzponton.org and auto-data.net.