Miguel Sánchez
MERCEDES-BENZ W115 240D PHOTOS: MERCEDES-BENZ CLASSIC
What is the best Mercedes-Benz? Taking into account that the brand made the first car as such ... That under its belt is the 300SL ... The Silver Arrows ... Some of the best large sedans of all time ... Well, who knows. However, let us think with criteria based more on the practical and rational than on the bombastic and spectacular.
In that sense, what do we ask of a car for the day to day? That effectively fulfills the mission of transporting us, right? If it is spending little, with comfort and with hardly any breakdowns ... Better than better. Okay, they are not the most vibrant reasons, but they are the most serene when choosing a vehicle for daily use. That is why many think that the best Mercedes in history is the W123.
The rods in its wide range can be recognized by the name of its engine, although some call it simply "the hardest". Some two and a half million units were made, many of which continue to roll in developing countries under conditions impossible for many cars today. However, the enormous success of the W123 cannot be understood without the technological leap that has taken place. for its predecessor: the W114 / W115.
From 1968 to 1976 they were the reference of the E segment. Hard as stones it is normal to see units of this model in Morocco. Far from mechanics with refined official services, good roads or periodic reviews, these Mercedes testify to the technical toughness with which they were created. In fact, this Essaouira taxi in operation since 1991 is a good example. An unbreakable W115 "Stroke 8" 240D from 1974.
MERCEDES 240D W115: A FRESH CHASSIS
From a few years to this part Mercedes has changed. Now his models are more aggressive, more muscular. Underlying all this is opening up to new markets, to new age segments. Why? Well, because during the 70s, 80s and 90s Mercedes carved out an image of "Car for older man".
It is true that both because of their designs and their behavior, those saloons do not enter by sight but… When you take a look under the sheet everything changes. These cars win you over for their careful engineering. However, something curious happened: none of the Mercedes after World War II mounted a new chassis. All had platforms derived from previous designs. This changed with the launch of the W114 in 1968.
Known as "New generation models", the W114 / W115 had a wide range of engines, among which the diesel options stood out. In fact, the best-selling model of the series was the 200D. With his four cylinder OM615 diesels left behind their reputation as a tractor engine. Now they performed adequately in sedans designed for long Autobahn trips.
ABOUT 500 KILOMETERS A DAY: THE 240D TAXI THAT ROLLS THROUGH MOROCCO
The legendary robustness of these cars is seen in that they are preferred by the toughest taxi drivers. And yes, we say hard because look: about 500 kilometers a day -many of them overland-, extreme temperatures crossing desert areas, minimal maintenance ... All this is what Mohamed El Bacha endures with his 115 W240 1974D. And apparently it has not yet given a single serious problem!
This taxi driver from the city of Essaouira He acquired the car in 1991. According to his account, its condition was not the best, but Mohamed restored it and since then he has been riding up to a hundred daily passengers, Six days a week. Trips to Agadir, Marrakech… And all with about 7-8 liters every 100 km. The odometer stopped working years ago, probably tired of turning it over and over again. With this it is all said.
Knowing what this W115 240D can withstand without question… We don't care about its aesthetics, its power and even its behavior when cornering. This model is admired for the incredible mechanics and chassis made to endure and last.. A great car and a great story that of this taxi driver and his 240D.
