MERCEDES BENZ E-Klasse "Strich-Acht" (W114/115) 1968-1976 Photos, engines & full specs

Mercedes-Benz introduced the “Stroke-Acht” (slash-eight) W114/115 sedan lineup in 1968 as a successor to the already old W110 model.

The fin-tail Mercedes era was closing to an end, and the German carmaker hired Paul Braq to create a new range of vehicles. He started from a blank sheet of paper and created a minimalist design for a car that became famous and sold in almost two million units globally.

With its vertically mounted, rectangular-shaped with rounded corners headlights, Paul Braq managed to create a legendary look for the car. Everyone could recognize the model even if there was no badge on the hood. Also, the specific Mercedes-Benz design for the grille was unique. The car sported chromed bumpers and exterior trims around the windows and on the side panels. In the back, the flat trunk lid was slightly sloped. Underneath it, the horizontal taillights featured reversing lights on both sides. An extended wheelbase version was available as well.

Depending on the trim level and option, the W114/115 featured cloth or leather seats. The carmaker installed two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer on the dashboard, while other gauges showed the fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and the ammeter. A safety cell surrounded the cabin, protecting the occupants. For the extended wheelbase version, the carmaker installed three seat rows and room for up to eight occupants.

The W114/115 featured a completely new platform with semi-trailing arms in the rear to increase comfort and road-holding. The carmaker installed a wide engine choice for those years, including diesel and gasoline engines.