Introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in April 1951, the W187 was powered by a single overhead camshaft inline six-cylinder M180 engine and available as a saloon, coupé, and cabriolet, all designated with the 220 model name.

The styling was similar to that of the Mercedes-Benz 170S except that the 170's freestanding headlights were integrated into the fenders of the 220 for a slightly more modern look.

The Mercedes-Benz sales department let it be known that this development was a direct response to pressing requests from leading celebrities of the time.

[citation needed] During 1953 the manufacturer replaced the conventionally flat windscreen on the 2/3 seater "Cabriolet A" with a slightly curved screen, which also found its way on to the new coupé: this was a way of highlighting the sporting nature of both models.

Because of the extra power in what was, by modern standards, a heavy car, the W187 was equipped with duplex drum brakes.

The body of the W187 saloon was closely modelled on the 1938 Mercedes-Benz W153, and despite the modern engine that powered it, already looked old fashioned to many observers on the day it was introduced.