5 Minutes
A South African restomod with a German soul
When restomods are mentioned, American muscle usually comes to mind: classic Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers re-engined with LS, Coyote or HEMI powerplants. But some of the most interesting projects come from Europe, and this 1956 Mercedes-Benz pickup conversion from Mo's Restoration and Parts in Benoni, South Africa, proves why German restomods deserve more attention. The build pairs a charming W120-era body with a thoroughly modern A45 AMG drivetrain and chassis, creating a unique mix of vintage style and contemporary performance.
Origins and the body
The body perched on this new platform is from a 1956 Mercedes-Benz W120-series 180D. In South Africa a small number of W120 sedan bodies were historically converted into pickups — local workshops mounted truck beds onto German rolling chassis to create hardworking, practical vehicles. Those factory-era conversions used modest 1.8–1.9 liter petrol or diesel engines and were valued for durability rather than speed. Very few of these pickup conversions survive today, which makes a well-preserved example like this rare and visually arresting.
What’s under the skin: modern AMG transplant
Drivetrain and chassis
Instead of restoring the period drivetrain, Mo's removed the original chassis and engine and installed a stripped-down platform from a modern Mercedes-AMG A 45. That donor package brings a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four producing 376 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, all-wheel drive and a seven-speed double-clutch transmission (DCT). The swap transforms the pickup from a low-speed work vehicle into one of the quickest four-cylinder-based builds you’ll encounter.
Suspension, brakes and handling
Because the A45’s subframe, AMG-tuned suspension and massive brakes are part of the conversion, this restomod isn’t just fast in a straight line — it’s built to handle. Expect sharper turn-in, reduced body roll and braking performance far beyond what a factory 1950s chassis could offer. While the truck bed adds a practical twist, the chassis geometry and sports setup favor canyon carving and track-style driving over slow, heavy hauling.
Interior and integration
The cabin is replaced with modern components from the donor A45. That means contemporary ergonomics, safety features and infotainment instead of a fully period-correct interior. Purists might miss original trim, but for many enthusiasts the blend of vintage exterior and modern cockpit is exactly the appeal of a restomod: classic looks with usable, daily-driver performance and comfort.
Specifications
- Base body: 1956 Mercedes-Benz W120-series (180D) pickup conversion
- Donor chassis: Mercedes-AMG A 45 platform (stripped subframe)
- Engine: turbocharged 2.0L inline-four (AMG)
- Power/Torque: 376 hp / 350 lb-ft
- Transmission: 7-speed double-clutch (DCT)
- Drivetrain: AMG all-wheel drive
- Suspension/Brakes: AMG-tuned suspension with upgraded braking system
Market positioning and appeal
This conversion occupies a niche between concours-restoration and aggressive restomod. It’s aimed at buyers who value originality of appearance but want modern performance, safety and daily usability. In automotive markets where unique builds are prized — collectors, boutique restomod clients, or enthusiasts who attend shows and track days — a truck like this is a show-stopper. It’s unlikely to appeal to those seeking an authentic museum-piece restoration, but for people who want a vintage look with modern AMG pace, it’s ideal.
Comparisons and context
Compared with typical American restomods that often reuse domestic V8s, this German project is notable for its small-displacement, high-output powerplant and all-wheel-drive dynamics. Against a stock A45 hatchback, the pickup version gains utility and unique styling but sacrifices some of the hatchback’s original packaging efficiency. Compared to a period-correct W120 pickup, this restomod is vastly quicker, handles better and is far more useable in modern traffic.
Challenges and craftsmanship
Mating a 1950s body to a contemporary AMG chassis requires careful engineering: firewall and floor modifications, driveshaft and exhaust routing, electronics integration and safety system calibration. Mo's Restoration has experience with ambitious swaps — previous projects include a 380SEC fitted with an M113 V8 and an E30 BMW powered by an E46 engine — and this pickup highlights their ability to blend heritage aesthetics with modern Mercedes-AMG performance.
Conclusion
For enthusiasts looking for originality, performance and character, this 1956 Mercedes pickup restomod is a compelling proposition. It combines collectible vintage styling with the quick, communicative behavior of a modern AMG — a rare combination that stands out at car shows and on twisty roads alike.
Source: autoevolution
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