The Mercedes-Benz W110, commonly known as the “Fintail” due to its distinctive rear fin-like extensions, represented a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz in the mid-1960s. Produced from 1962 to 1968, the W110 was designed as a more affordable and modern alternative to the larger and more luxurious W111 “S-Class” models. The 230 variant, introduced in July 1966 and continuing through February 1968, occupied a middle ground in the Fintail lineup, offering a balance of performance and comfort. It was positioned above the base 200 model and below the more powerful 250, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and capable family sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fintail |
| Generation | Fintail (W110) |
| Type (Engine) | 230 (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 1966 |
| End of production | February, 1968 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 21 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.9 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 92 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52 Hp/l |
| Torque | 178 Nm @ 4000 rpm (131.29 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 180 X / 180.949 |
| Engine displacement | 2306 cm3 (140.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72.8 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1305 kg (2877.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4730 mm (186.22 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 230 was the M180.949, a 2.3-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine was an evolution of the earlier M180 series, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder. It utilized a Solex 40 PHH II carburetor for fuel delivery, a common setup for the era. The engine produced 120 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 178 Nm (131.29 lb-ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout was typical for Mercedes-Benz at the time. The 230 was equipped with a four-speed manual transmission as standard, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the rear wheels. While an automatic transmission was offered as an option, it was a four-speed hydraulic unit, known for its smoothness but not its outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 230 offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness over outright sportiness. The 120 hp engine provided adequate power for highway cruising and city driving, but acceleration was not particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.1 seconds reflects this. Compared to the 200, the 230 offered noticeably more power and torque, resulting in improved acceleration and passing ability. However, it lacked the extra punch of the 250. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, while the optional automatic provided a more relaxed driving experience, albeit with some power loss. The Fintail’s suspension, featuring double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup at the rear, provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 230 typically came standard with features considered luxurious for the mid-1960s, including comfortable cloth upholstery, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and a comprehensive instrument panel. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a radio. The interior was well-appointed and offered a sense of quality and refinement. The 230’s trim level was generally considered mid-range within the Fintail lineup. It offered more standard features than the base 200 but lacked some of the more exclusive options available on the 250.
Chassis & Braking
The W110 chassis was a robust and well-engineered unit, providing a solid foundation for the car’s comfortable ride and handling. The front suspension utilized double wishbones and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a trailing arm design. Braking was accomplished via disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking system was adequate for the car’s weight and performance, but it lacked the stopping power of more modern systems. Steering was handled by a cone worm and recirculation balls system, providing a relatively direct and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Benz 230 was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and build quality. However, some critics noted its relatively modest performance compared to other cars in its class. Compared to the 200, the 230 offered a significant performance upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who wanted more power. Compared to the 250, the 230 was more affordable but lacked the extra performance and exclusivity of the top-of-the-line model. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, averaging around 21 US mpg.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz W110 Fintail, and the 230 variant specifically, holds a respected place in automotive history. It represented a crucial step in Mercedes-Benz’s evolution, bridging the gap between the traditional luxury cars and the more modern, mass-market vehicles that would follow. The M180 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and many examples are still on the road today. The 230 is now a sought-after classic car, appreciated by enthusiasts for its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and enduring quality. While maintenance can be costly due to the car’s age and complexity, the 230 remains a rewarding and enjoyable vehicle to own and drive.
