W112 (1961 to 1967)

The Mercedes-Benz W112, manufactured globally between 1961 and 1967, was the absolute pinnacle of the "Fintail" generation, with just 5,202 saloons, 2,419 coupes, and only 708 cabriolets ever hand-finished. While it shared the elegant Paul Bracq-designed bodywork of the W111, the W112 was a distinct flagship, powered by the high-performance 3.0-litre M189 straight-six—a direct descendant of the engine used in the 300SL Gullwing—and equipped with standard air suspension, power steering, and an automatic transmission. In the 2026 Australian market, the W112 has reached a peak in desirability, particularly for original, Australian-delivered right-hand drive coupes and cabriolets, which are now viewed as blue-chip investments. The buyer pool in Australia is highly exclusive, consisting of heritage investors and Mercedes-Benz purists who seek the model's unique blend of 1960s aristocratic style and advanced mechanical complexity. Locally, market value remains exceptionally robust for well-maintained survivors, as 2026 buyers are increasingly focused on vehicles that have been fastidiously serviced by specialists like Brooklands Motors in Melbourne or MB Spares in Canberra to ensure the intricate pneumatic suspension and mechanical fuel injection are in peak order. The Australian community has also kept a watchful eye on significant local cars, such as the rare coupe originally ordered by WA mining magnate Lang Hancock, proving that the W112 remains a star of the domestic collector scene. For the Australian aficionado, the W112 represents the absolute summit of mid-century S-Class prestige, continuing to set the benchmark for luxury at premier events like Motorclassica and within the Mercedes-Benz Club of Australia.

The Mercedes-Benz W112, manufactured globally between 1961 and 1967, was the absolute pinnacle of the "Fintail" generation, with just 5,202 saloons, 2,419 coupes, and only 708 cabriolets ever hand-finished. While it shared the elegant Paul Bracq-designed bodywork of the W111, the W112 was a distinct flagship, powered by the high-performance 3.0-litre M189 straight-six—a direct descendant of the engine used in the 300SL Gullwing—and equipped with standard air suspension, power steering, and an au… Read more