There is no model for this Mercedes. Different influences are skillfully combined with each other. The stern might be called 'American' what does not apply, however, for the relatively graceful roof. This much all-round view is unprecedented. The front still carries reminiscences of its predecessor, but definitely not the double bumpers reserved for the higher valued models. The lights could stem from the roadster 300 SL; however, they are differently formed at the side. The car comes across as massive in spite of the bonnet that in comparison to its predecessor is flatter towards the front end. The actual enlargement is clearly smaller than the optical one. Indeed, the wheelbase as a percentage of the total length decreased.
More important is that this vehicle already incorporates the first outcomes of the new security research by Bela Barenyl. Patents rest on the crash zones in front and in the rear, and on the safety cell in between. With the old 220, the owners were happy when their vehicles showed not even a scratch after a casualty. However, the passengers could carry off heavy injuries. Therefore, pliability is the key word, e.g., for steering wheel and dashboard. Wooden surfaces are replaced by synthetics, also because of the weight reduction.
Of course, an essential feature of Mercedes is the comfort. The bigger stern is supposed to be kept controllable by the chrome plated corners. Later there will be a Daimler, which uses dipsticks to point out the end of the car for backing up. Also the interior leaves no open questions in terms of comfort. Just the thickness of the seat backs is remarkable. We are still in the time of the reclining seat fittings, although the crew of such a car can probably afford a hotel. The air blown into the passenger's compartment is no longer taken in from above the fender; instead the clean air is sucked in by a large ventilation grille below and in front of the windscreen. In the middle of the dash board there are generously arranged control elements, accessible for drivers and front seat passengers. Among them there might later on be the air-conditioning system, which is as of yet still not a standard feature. Only then a central console evolves due to the center shift stick and no continuous sitting bench any more.