Starter classic: Mercedes-benz W110 “Fintail” (1961-‘68)
A solid classic that’s useable daily
UNLIKE today, where avant-garde designs rule, MercedesBenzes used to be conservatively styled. Witness this “Fintail”, which followed the “Ponton” models but stuck to that tried-and-tested formula ensuring a classic look which has stood the test of time. Spot a Fintail, a precursor to the E-class, on the streets today and the elegant lines and appearance of solidity are immediately evident.
PACKAGING
The W110 range offered two series of four-cylinder models in petrol and diesel, with the later iteration seeing the front indicators move from above the fenders to below the headlamps. The W111, meanwhile, was a range of upmarket, six-cylinder petrol vehicles distinguishable by elongated front headlamps.
Models included 190c and 190Dc, followed in 1965 by the 200, 200D, 220S, 220SE, 230 and 230S, indicating numerically accurate engine capacities.
Independent suspension with coil springs all-round was used and the steering system em- ployed recirculating balls. Boot capacity was capacious at more than 600 litres.
POWERTRAIN
The 190c we tested in April 1963 used the 190b engine with a raised compression ratio (8,7:1) and altered valve timing to deliver 67 kw.
Twin Solex 38 PDSI carbs were employed on the popular 200, while later models switched to twin Zenith carbs. These companies combined and later were joined by Stromberg, which means you may find Zenith- Solex and Zenith-stromberg carbs, for example. A four-speed transmission with column shift translated power to the rear wheels, while a four-speed automatic gearbox was introduced in the 230 models.
The diesels (naturally aspirated) lacked power; 40 kw in a fairly large body meant lethargic performance. The petrol faired
better, with the 200 also developing 67 kw, the 220 79 kw and the 230 85 kw.
WHICH ONE TO GET
All Mercedes-benz vehicles up to the 1980s are desirable but, generally, the ones with more power will always be in greater demand across every range of Benz. Between 1965 and ’68, diesel sales were just 25% less than petrols, which was a rare occurrence and means oil-burners are nearly as easy to nd.
By the way, the W111 models are more satisfying on the open road thanks to having more power, but that desirability also means they’re now more expensive.
WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR
Suspension bushes, shock absorbers and ball joints should be inspected. If the rear-end is sagging, the coils springs may need replacing. A compression test would help indicate engine condition and the rest is down to visual cues. Generally, the Fintails that remain are in great condition as most owners fastidiously maintain them.
AVAILABILITY AND PRICES
If, like many of us, you keep a keen-eyed watch on classic cars for sale, you may have noticed once-affordable Mercedes-benzes have been quietly heading northwards on the price list. It’s getting too late for any bargains from the W110 and W114 (circa 1970) ranges but the W123s remain good value and are fantastically well built. If you have your heart set on a Fintail, expect to pay anywhere from R150 000 to R275 000.