Usually the vent line is blocked creating the accumulated vaccum in the tank. As the fuel level drops no air is introduced from the vent line to compensate. Bad enough obstructed vent and your car will not be able to continue running.
The vacuum is pulling against the lift pump. If enough vacuum is created you starve out for fuel.
There is a one way valve in the vent line . . It's function is to retain pressure or fumes that would be vented to the atmosphere. When a vaccum forms in the tank the vent line valve is supposed to open and relieve any vacuum being created in the tank. The fumes do not escape as air is flowing into the tank at that point. Common failing for the little plastic item on the end of the line to obstruct. Should be cleaned with that symptom. In theory a quick check is your should be able to blow on that line with the fuel cap off and air should flow into the tank.
This particular problem a couple of years ago got me a nice 167k (not tweeked odometer) 1984 300d for 500.00 american. It would quit after about every 140 miles on the highway.
Usually by the time it was towed into a garage the tank pressure equilized enough to start again. So the vent line was only almost totally obstructed. Cost me a little under 2.00 to fix the burnt out wire on the starter from excess cranking and cleaning the vent line.
In theory it could have also imploded or collapsed the fuel tank. The vacuum should never build greater than what it takes to open that small valve. Thats not very much. So pay attention if the vacuum is strong when you take your cap off.