The Mercedes That Took Luxury Cars To A Whole New Level – SlashGear

One of the primary features of the W116 series was its exterior dimensions. Offered in two configurations, buyers could drive home in the 450 SE or 450 SEL that elongated the wheelbase by 3.9 inches (up from 195 inches). In comparison to modern auto bodies, these cars look clunky and voluminous. The compartment is somewhat upright, and the hood utilizes an ever-so-slight taper that would look strange by today’s standards. 

Even so, in 1972, when the vehicle debuted in the American market, it created a shockwave in the automotive arena that quickly resulted in redesigns of American cars over the years that followed. By 1975, the Ford Granada, Cadillac Seville, and Mercury Monarch all harkened to the style set in motion by the 450 SE from ’72. The somewhat boxy aesthetic and interior volume maximized for comfort continued to persist in auto stylings for the next two decades before another trend — streamlining — would come into play.

The 450 SE offered internal improvements, not just a highly sought-after visual style. The W116 series included crash safety features that made driving less hazardous. Alongside the revamped head and taillight positioning, this new Mercedes brought large bumpers into play and added body crumple zones that padded the impact for those riding in the vehicle. Mercedes initially toyed with this feature in 1959 but brought it to fruition in the W116. This innovation continues in modern cars and has been adopted across the board.