Description
The Mercedes-Benz 230 was a key model in the W114/W115 series, introduced in 1968 as part of Mercedes-Benz’s move toward a more modern, safety-focused and refined generation of mid-size executive cars. Positioned above the four-cylinder models, the 230 brought six-cylinder smoothness to the range and appealed to buyers who wanted greater refinement and performance without moving up to the larger and more expensive S-Class. It quickly became one of the most balanced and respected variants in the lineup.
Power came from a 2.3-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine, producing approximately 120 horsepower in early form. This engine was valued for its smoothness, quiet operation and flexibility rather than outright speed. Acceleration was confident by late-1960s standards, and the car was particularly well suited to sustained motorway cruising. A four-speed manual gearbox was standard, with an automatic transmission available and widely chosen by buyers seeking relaxed, effortless driving.
The W114 chassis marked a significant step forward in Mercedes-Benz engineering. It used a rigid unitary body with carefully engineered crumple zones and a strong passenger safety cell, reflecting the brand’s growing emphasis on passive safety. Suspension consisted of double wishbones with coil springs at the front and a rear semi-trailing arm setup with coil springs, delivering a stable, comfortable ride with predictable handling. Disc brakes were fitted at the front, with drums at the rear, providing reliable braking performance appropriate to the car’s performance.
Styling of the Mercedes-Benz 230 was clean, modern and restrained, moving away from the fins of the earlier W110 models. Straight body lines, large glass areas and an upright grille gave the car a dignified but contemporary appearance. The design emphasised clarity and function rather than ornamentation, a theme that would define Mercedes-Benz saloons well into the 1970s. Compared with earlier cars, the 230 felt more modern and international in character.
Inside, the 230 offered a spacious, well-designed cabin focused on comfort and durability. Seating was upright and supportive, ideal for long-distance travel, and interior materials were chosen for longevity rather than visual luxury. The dashboard layout was logical and uncluttered, with excellent visibility and clear instrumentation. Build quality was a standout feature, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for solidity and attention to detail.
On the road, the Mercedes-Benz 230 delivered a refined and composed driving experience. The six-cylinder engine transformed the character of the car compared with four-cylinder variants, reducing vibration and noise while providing smooth, effortless power delivery. Handling was stable and predictable, rewarding calm, measured driving rather than aggressive inputs. The car felt particularly at home on long journeys, where its comfort and mechanical refinement were most apparent.
The 230 was popular with professionals, company fleets and private owners who wanted understated prestige and dependable engineering. It was widely used across Europe and export markets, often accumulating high mileages thanks to its mechanical robustness and ease of maintenance. Its balance of performance, comfort and durability made it one of the most versatile models in the W114 range.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 230 is regarded as one of the most well-rounded classics of the late 1960s and early 1970s Mercedes lineup. Surviving examples are valued for their smooth six-cylinder engines, solid construction and timeless design. As a car that successfully combined modern engineering with traditional Mercedes-Benz values, the 230 stands as an important milestone in the evolution of the brand’s mid-size executive saloons.