The Mercedes-Benz W111 “Fintail” 230 S, produced between July 1965 and January 1968, represents a significant evolution in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. Positioned as a step up from the 220 S, the 230 S offered increased performance thanks to its larger engine, while retaining the distinctive styling that earned the W111 series its nickname. It was a key model within the W111 generation, which spanned from 1959 to 1968 and served as a bridge between the earlier “Ponton” series and the later, more modern S-Class. The 230 S aimed to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and German engineering.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fintail |
| Generation | Fintail (W111) |
| Type (Engine) | 230 S (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 1965 |
| End of production | January, 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 | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 132.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52 Hp/l |
| Torque | 179 Nm @ 4000 rpm (132.02 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 180 VIII / 180.947 |
| 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 | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4875 mm (191.93 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 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 | Hydro-pneumatic element, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 230 S was the M180.947, a 2.3-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine represented an increase in displacement over the 220 S’s 2.0-liter unit, contributing to the 230 S’s improved performance. The engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a twin-barrel Solex carburetor, a common setup for the era. The engine produced 120 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The standard transmission was a four-speed manual, although an optional four-speed automatic transmission was available, though less common.
Driving Characteristics
The 230 S with the manual transmission offered a reasonably engaging driving experience for its time. While not a sports car, the increased power of the 2.3-liter engine provided noticeably better acceleration than the 220 S. The 0-60 mph time of around 11.9 seconds was respectable for a luxury sedan of the mid-1960s. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, did diminish performance somewhat, resulting in a slightly slower 0-60 mph time. The gear ratios were geared towards comfortable cruising rather than outright acceleration. The steering, utilizing a cone worm and recirculation balls system, was known for its precision but required a fair amount of effort, especially at low speeds. The suspension, featuring double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup with a hydro-pneumatic element at the rear, provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 230 S was positioned as a mid-range offering within the W111 Fintail lineup. Standard equipment included comfortable cloth upholstery, wood trim on the dashboard and door panels, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. Power-assisted steering and brakes were often included, though not always standard. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, a radio, and whitewall tires. The interior was designed with a focus on practicality and comfort, offering ample space for passengers and luggage. The “S” designation indicated a higher level of trim and refinement compared to the base “A” models.
Chassis & Braking
The W111 Fintail chassis was a robust body-on-frame construction, providing a solid and durable platform. The front suspension utilized double wishbones with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a trailing arm setup with a hydro-pneumatic element, offering a degree of self-leveling. 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 lacked the stopping power of more modern systems. The steering system, as mentioned previously, was a cone worm with recirculation balls, providing precise control but requiring significant driver effort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 230 S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and improved performance compared to the 220 S. However, some critics noted that the styling, while distinctive, was not universally appealing. Compared to the 220 S, the 230 S offered a noticeable performance boost, making it a more enjoyable car to drive. Compared to the more powerful 250 S, the 230 S was more fuel-efficient and less expensive to maintain. The 230 S offered a good balance between luxury, performance, and practicality, making it a popular choice among discerning buyers.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz W111 Fintail 230 S has become a sought-after classic car among enthusiasts. The M180 engine, while not overly complex, is known for its durability and reliability when properly maintained. However, like any classic car, the 230 S requires regular maintenance and attention to detail. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated network of suppliers and enthusiasts exists to support owners. Today, the 230 S represents a significant piece of Mercedes-Benz history, embodying the company’s commitment to quality, engineering, and luxury. Well-preserved examples command respectable prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and historical significance.
