The Mercedes-Benz 108/109 Series turns 60 this year, a milestone for the cars that reshaped luxury motoring when they arrived in 1965. Debuting at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 108 and its extended-wheelbase sibling, the 109, defined a new chapter in style, comfort, and technology.
Design of the Mercedes-Benz 108/109 Series
The 1960s marked a shift in aesthetics across fashion, architecture, and cars. Paul Bracq’s design for the Mercedes-Benz 108/109 Series captured that change with clean lines, a lower roofline, and expansive glass surfaces.
The radiator grille was reimagined with a near-square shape, adding to the modern look while retaining brand identity. Unlike many contemporaries, these cars avoided trends and remain timeless even six decades later.
The Road to the S-Class
The 108/109 Series quickly became the best-selling luxury saloons of their era. Their balance of space, refinement, and understated elegance set the stage for the first official S-Class, introduced in 1972 with the 116 Series.
This continuity is still evident today, carried forward by the current 223 Series from Mercedes-Benz, AMG, and Maybach.
Mercedes-Benz 108/109 Series Engineering and Safety
All models featured disc brakes on all wheels and a hydro-pneumatic compensating spring to stabilize heavy loads. Six-cylinder engines powered the early versions, with fuel-injected “E” models using advanced six-piston pumps.
In 1969, Mercedes introduced the 300 SEL 3.5 with a new V8 engine and Bosch D-Jetronic injection. Export markets, especially the United States, received the 4.5-litre variant. These were the first mass-produced Mercedes-Benz V8 engines.
Power and Performance of the Mercedes-Benz 108/109 Series
The range’s most powerful model arrived in 1968: the 300 SEL 6.3. Borrowing its drivetrain from the flagship 600, it packed a 6.3-litre V8 that delivered performance rivaling sports cars of the day.
With 250 hp and remarkable torque, the sedan could reach 100 km/h in under 7 seconds. Luxury and speed combined seamlessly, establishing the blueprint for future performance saloons.
Market Success and Collector Value
Between 1965 and 1972, over 382,000 units of the 108/109 Series were produced. Their success helped cement Mercedes-Benz as the benchmark for luxury saloons.
Today, values remain strong. A 280 SE 3.5 in good condition can fetch over €30,000, while pristine examples of the 300 SEL 6.3 command upwards of €90,000.
Mercedes-Benz Classic Genuine Parts
Many of these cars remain on the road thanks to Mercedes-Benz Classic. Around 2,100 genuine parts are still available, from engine components like pistons and camshafts to windscreens in three variations.
This supply ensures that the 108/109 Series remains both drivable and authentic, preserving the link between past and present.
Summary
The Mercedes-Benz 108/109 Series celebrates 60 years as icons of design, engineering, and luxury. Their combination of elegance, innovation, and V8 performance set the foundation for the modern S-Class and still resonate strongly in today’s classic car market.
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Source: Mercedes-Benz
