w112 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE Tailfin elegant predecessor of the S-class

In August 1961, another top-class model was presented with the 300 SE. With respect to its exterior and technical concept, it closely resembled the 220 SEb model but many technical specialties were included as standard. Basic equipment comprised not only the 4-speed automatic transmission and the newly developed power-assisted steering but also air suspension, used for the first time on a Mercedes-Benz and allowing a combination of sporty handling and maximum ride comfort. The brakes of this model, with the internal designation W 112, represented another advance: for the first time, a standard Mercedes-Benz production car was fitted with a dual-circuit brake system and disk brakes front and rear. The 3-liter injection engine was based on the tried and tested engine from the 300 d, but now had a light-alloy block and was thus approximately 40 kg lighter. Carburation was still on the principle of intermittent inlet manifold injection using a Bosch injection pump. In January 1964 compression was raised slightly and a larger Bosch injection pump was used resulting in an increase in performance from 160 to 170 hp. The body of the 300 SE was almost identical to that of the 220 SEb, but had more extensive chrome trim. The most prominent distinguishing feature was the chrome strip running from the headlights to the taillights in the side ribbing; additionally, the 300 SE had trims around the wheel arches as well as a broad chrome strip below the doors.
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source: Daimler AG