The Mercedes-Benz W114 and W115 series premiered in early 1968, earning the historic designation '/8' (Strich-Acht) to signify its 1968 launch year. Built upon a brand-new rear-wheel drive chassis featuring a semi-trailing arm rear axle, the /8 delivered modern handling refinement and serene ride quality. Designed under Paul Bracq, the body featured clean architectural lines available as a four-door sedan (including long-wheelbase limousines) and a pillarless two-door hardtop coupe (C114).

W114 chassis codes denoted models equipped with smooth inline-six gasoline engines (2.3L to 2.8L M110 DOHC units), whereas W115 codes designated inline-four gasoline variants and legendary OM615/OM616 diesel models. In 1974, the W115 introduced the world's first five-cylinder diesel passenger car engine, the 240 D 3.0 (OM617). A 1973 mid-cycle update introduced ribbed safety taillights that shed dirt, lower bonnet lines, and larger mirrors. Over 1.9 million units were built, proving the engineering endurance of the platform.