The Mercedes-Benz "Ponton" series is a range of car models from Daimler-Benz, launched in July 1953, dominated by salons / salons and nicknamed "Ponton", the German word for "pontoon", referring to at the side plate, three-box, general shape of the cars - a change from post-war car design, also commonly known as ponton designation.

In addition to the obvious visual innovation, the design of the Benz 'Ponton' car introduced changes in construction that significantly improved automotive safety for 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 four-cylinder sedans, was the first entirely new series of Mercedes passenger cars since World War II and replaced the pre-war Type 170 and Type 170 S.

Visibly contrasting with the traditional distinctive bumpers on that body-to-body model and the previous ones, the "Pontons" were the first monocordic models of body production.

Mercedes expanded the Ponton base model to a diversified line, developing several series, based on the 180 model, introducing more engines and stretching the body. Six-cylinder models received a longer nose, and the 'S' models also have a longer passenger compartment, offering more legroom.

A six-cylinder coupe and convertible were derived, and a reduced floor of the four-cylinder sedan was also modified to serve as the framework 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.