1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S Sedan

Replacing the Fintail saloons at the top of the Mercedes-Benz family, the W108/109 was launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1965. This was effectively the birth of the legendary S-class line that continues as the pinnacle of luxury motoring to this day. With sharp, modern styling by Paul Bracq, the car was available in two wheelbase lengths - the other significant difference between the W108 and W109 models being the complex self-levelling air suspension on the latter. Two engines were available, a 2.5-litre six-cylinder (either with carburettors or fuel injection) and the all alloy 3-litre six. The 250S was powered by the M108 SOHC six, a development of the unit found in the 220 using a larger bore and stroke plus a seven-bearing crankshaft, with twin Zenith carburettors, developing 128 bhp at 5400 rpm, with either a four-speed automatic or manual transmission. Suspension was via coil springs with double wishbones and a stabiliser bar up front and the swing axle system with radius arms at the rear, with disc brakes all round. With advanced safety features and leading edge technology, the S-class was years ahead of the competition and even today well kept examples are regularly found as daily drivers.