W108 & W109 model differences

1a) What was the standard level of equipment in the 250S?

1b) How did the 250S differ from 250SE, 300SE and 300SEL models (both on equipment and mechanical specification)?

2) Which models in the W108 and W109 series were the coupe and convertible versions based on?

3a) Were the W114 and W115 meant as less-luxurious versions of the W108 and W109?

3b) If so, what were their engine and trim level choices in the years they were produced?

4) Were the W114/W115 and W108/W109 replaced by the W123 and W116? (which replaced which?)


Joseph Mullin

[psfred]

Joe:

I'll answer what I know.

S -- shwer or heavy (meaning large), E= Einsprtiz, or fuel injected.

S models have carbs, SE models are fuel injected, mechanical except for the 3.5 and 4.5 V8 engines.

Trim level was about the same, I think -- wood trim around doors, MB Tex or leather seats available, etc. Rear compensator (self leveling) was an option on all models, I think. Main diff was the engines.

The 300 was the top of the line, but the only exterior difference is the presence of aluminum trim completely covering the door frames instead of just the inner portion. Wood trim was often Macassar Ebony or Walnut burl instead of French Walnut, probably only came with leather seats. Air suspension was pretty much standard on the 300, although I think it may have been an option on the 280SE v8 cars. Only the 300 could be had with the 6.3L mechanical injection engine.

Otherwise, they all have kingpin front ends, swing axle independent rear suspension, etc. None have power seats.

The W114/W115 cars replaced the previous small sedan line, not the S class. That was replaced by the W116s.

The W108 started life in 1962 or 63 as the W111 coupe, started in production as fourdoor sedans in 1966. Production ended in 1972. The W115/114 line started production in 1968, ran to 1976. Replaced by the W123 chassis in 1976.

Peter

[suginami]

The W108 and W109 chasis are the same, except for suspension; the 108's came with coil springs, the 109's use the air suspension.

Some people think the difference is in the wheelbase, but that's not so. The SEL's have 4 inches more legroom and the extra length is all in the back seat area.

[MikeTangas]

Another trim difference, besides those mentioned by Peter, the chrome trim on the W109 is polished stainless while the W108 is anodized aluminum.

[240 Ed]

My 68 250S doen NOT have vacuum door locks. But does have power windows and AC.