Introduction and History of the Mercedes-Benz W110, W111, and W112 Series (1959–1971)

The W110, W111, and W112 series, collectively known as the “Heckflosse” (Fintail in English), marked a major step forward in engineering, safety, and styling for Mercedes-Benz during the postwar boom years. Built between 1959 and 1971, these models introduced groundbreaking innovations in passive safety, while establishing clear product tiers: mid-range, luxury, and prestige.

Despite their visual similarities, the three series served distinct purposes, featuring different engines, equipment levels, and market positions. What united them was a new focus on crash safety, modern styling, and a solid reputation for engineering excellence.

🚘 Design Origins: The “Fintail” Look

• Designed under Friedrich Geiger and Karl Wilfert, the models took inspiration from American design trends of the late 1950s.

• The signature small tailfins were meant to improve rear visibility — hence the nickname “Heckflosse.”

• Beneath the styling, however, lay Mercedes-Benz’s first structured safety body, incorporating innovations from Béla Barényi, including:

  • Crumple zones front and rear

  • A rigid passenger safety cell

  • Collapsible steering column (later models)

Mercedes-Benz W110 (1961–1968): The Mid-Range Fintail

The W110 replaced the W120 “Ponton” and served as the mid-size family sedan, positioned below the W111/W112 luxury models.

Key Models:

• 190 / 190c / 190Dc / 200 / 200D / 230

• Available with inline-4 petrol and diesel engines

• Known for:

  • Durability and economy (especially the 190D and 200D)

  • Being the first Mercedes-Benz cars widely used as taxis across Europe

Production:

• Total W110 units: approx. 628,000

Mercedes-Benz W111 (1959–1971): The Luxury Sedan and Coupé

The W111 debuted in 1959 as the successor to the W180/W128 “Ponton” six-cylinder models, and introduced Mercedes’ new safety body.

Sedan Models (1959–1968):

• 220b / 220Sb / 220SEb / 230S

• Inline-6 petrol engines (M180 and M127)

• High-end interior finish (wood dash, fine upholstery)

• Popular as government cars and executive transport

Coupé and Cabriolet (1961–1971):

• 220SE / 250SE / 280SE

• Timeless, elegant design — no tailfins

• Highly collectible today, hand-built quality

Production:

• W111 sedans: approx. 337,000

• W111 coupés/cabriolets: approx. 38,000

Mercedes-Benz W112 (1961–1967): The Flagship 300SE

The W112 was the most exclusive of the three series, intended as a prestige model for the elite — placed above the W111.

Models:

• 300SE sedan / coupé / cabriolet

• Powered by the M189 3.0L inline-6 with mechanical fuel injection

• Included air suspension, power steering, automatic transmission, and luxury trim as standard

• Used extensively as diplomatic cars and in ceremonial roles

Production:

• W112 total units (all body styles): approx. 6,748

  • Extremely rare compared to W111/W110 models

Technical Highlights (Across the Series)

• Safety bodywork: a world first at this scale

• Optional or standard automatic transmission

• Power brakes, power steering, and air suspension (W112)

• Early models featured column-shift manual gearboxes

• Available in both left-hand and right-hand drive

🏁 Legacy and Influence

• First cars to incorporate modern crash protection — a precursor to modern automotive safety

• The W111 coupé/cabriolet line evolved into the W108/W109 and later S-Class coupés

• The W110 laid the foundation for what became the E-Class

• Regarded for their tank-like build quality, long service life, and classic elegance