MERCEDES-BENZ, The 1960s, W111 Two- and Four-Door

Mercedes W111: The Complete Guide to Sedans, Coupés & Cabriolets
The ultimate English-language resource for Mercedes W111 enthusiasts, collectors, and buyers.
Launched in 1959, the Mercedes W111 was more than a successor to the Ponton-it marked a new era in design, safety, and export success. With iconic styling and Béla Barényi’s pioneering crash-protection concepts, the W111 became one of Daimler-Benz’ most important models. This book-exclusively dedicated to the W111 sedans, coupés, and cabriolets-offers the most detailed reference available, enriched with over 150 color photos, including rare shots of chassis, interiors, and suspension. Inside you’ll discover:
- The full model history – From the 220b sedan to the elegant 230S and the stylish two-door variants.
- Safety and technical innovations – How Barényi’s ideas shaped automotive safety worldwide.
- VIN and data card decoding – Step-by-step help to confirm originality and equipment.
- Comprehensive buyer’s guide – Practical advice on typical issues, values, and what to check before buying.
- US market versions – Differences in regulations, styling, and features.
- Rare coachbuilt cars and motorsport history – Including unique custom bodies and the W111’s racing efforts.
- Original colors and interiors – Reference tables for factory paint and trim.
- Complete specifications – Engines, performance data, production figures, and more.

With a dedicated chapter on Béla Barényi, this book is both a technical reference and a celebration of one of Mercedes-Benz’s most elegant and innovative classics. Whether you’re restoring, buying, or simply admiring, it’s an indispensable guide to the W111.

Author Biography

With over 25 books and e-books written about Mercedes-Benz cars, Bernd S. Koehling has proven to be an authority on the brand. The books cover cars from the 1936 170V to the 2012 SL R231. Bernd has been involved in the Mercedes scene since the early 1970s, when he restored a pre-war 170V Cabriolet B. Since then he has not only owned many classic Mercedes including a 220S, 300d Adenauer, 200D, 250SE, 280SE Coupe 3.5, 300SEL, 350SL, 280E, 450SE, SLK230, he has also gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, which he shares with his readers. His other weakness revolves around British cars, here especially Jaguar and Alvis.