For Sale: 1966 Mercedes-Benz 230 in Glendale, California

THIS 1966 MERCEDES-BENZ 230 IS LOCATED IN: AVON, MN 56310

The W110 was Mercedes-Benz's entry level line of midsize automobiles in the mid-1960s. One of Mercedes' range of "Fintail" (German: Heckflosse) models, the W110 initially was available with either a 1.9 L M121 gasoline or 2.0 L OM621 diesel inline-four . It was introduced with the 190c and 190Dc sedans in April 1961, replacing the W120 180c/180Dc and W121 190b/190Db.

The W110 line was refreshed in July 1965 to become the 200 and Diesel 200D (model year 1966 for North America); at the same time, a six-cylinder 230 (successor to the Mercedes 220) became part of the W110 line. Production lasted just three more years, with the W115 220 and 220D introduced in 1968. The W110 and the 6-cylinder W111 were the first series of Mercedes cars to be extensively crash tested for occupant safety.

Second series (1965-1968)

The second series of 4-cylinder cars lasted just a few years. Production of the new 200, 200D and 230 models commenced in July, 1965,4 #fn4 at the Sindelfingen plant. The 200 and 200D replaced the 190c and 190Dc models respectively. The engine in the 200 had the bore increased from 85 to 87 mm, giving a 1988 cc displacement, and was fitted with twin carburetors (the 190c had a single carburetor). The OM621 diesel engine in the 200D was essentially identical to that of the 190Dc (which was actually a 1988 c.c. unit despite the car being labelled as a '190') but was improved by using a five main bearing crankshaft instead of the original three.

Visually, the second series models had the front indicators relocated from the top of the front fenders to below the headlights. At the rear, the tail lights were squared off and the chrome trim was revised to feature two horizontal trim strips instead of chrome-trimmed tail fins. All models now featured air outlets with chrome trim on the C-pillars (identical to the W111 models). Inside, there were very few changes except all models now featured reclining front seats (excluding the bench seats), which had previously been an option on the 190c and 190Dc. The 230 had a central armrest in the back seat as standard.

Further changes occurred in late 1967, with the beginning of the 1968 model year. 1968 models were equipped with collapsible steering columns to meet American safety regulations. Mirrors, interior door handles, and dashboard switchgear were also changed, matching those on the later W108/114/115 series cars.

All three of the W110 second series cars ended production in January 1968 with the introduction of the W115 220 and 220D.