Mercedes-Benz E-Class II (W110/W111) gallery (1961–1968)

Second generation E-Class precursor series (W110/W111 'Fintail'), produced from 1961 to 1968 featuring early safety crumple zone innovations.

All photos 1286 I (W120/W121) 6 1953–1962 II (W110/W111) 7 1961–1968 III (W114/W115) 33 1968–1976 IV (W123) 72 1975–1986 V (W124) 60 1984–1997 VI (W210) 19 1995–2003 VII (W211) 118 2002–2009 VIII (W212) 472 2009–2016 IX (W213) 255 2016–2023 X (W214) 67 2023

2048 x 1536 74 E-Class W110

1024 x 768 60 E-Class W110

1280 x 960 61 E-Class W110

1280 x 960 63 E-Class W110

1024 x 768 59 200D

1280 x 960 54 Estate (1965-1968)

1280 x 960 59 Binz 200D Ambulance (1965–1968)

The Mercedes-Benz W110 sedan series, alongside related W111 models produced between 1961 and 1968, is widely recognized as the 'Heckflosse' or 'Fintail' generation of Mercedes' mid-size executive line. The distinctive exterior featured modest tailfins designed to assist driver reverse orientation. Crucially, the W110 was among the first automobiles engineered around safety pioneer Béla Barényi's patented safety concept, incorporating a rigid passenger safety cell flanked by front and rear impact energy-absorbing crumple zones.

Engine offerings included 1.9-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline four-cylinders (190 c, 200) and rugged OM621 diesel engines (190 Dc, 200 D), plus the smooth inline-six 230 model. Power was routed through a four-speed manual or Mercedes-Benz's own four-speed automatic transmission, with front disc brakes gradually becoming standard equipment. In addition to the main four-door sedan, coachbuilder IMA in Belgium built official 'Universal' station wagon conversions. The W110 cemented Mercedes' dominance in durability and global taxi operation.