MERCEDES-BENZ The 1960s, Volume 2 - In-depth model history

In this review the book MERCEDES-BENZ, The 1960s, Volume 2 is presented as a focused historical reference for enthusiasts who want deep coverage of Mercedes models from that decade. This 270-page volume, updated in Dec. 2016 by Bernd S. Koehling, is best for readers seeking detailed development and production narratives rather than a quick picture book; the single biggest reason to buy is its model-by-model treatment of the 600, the Pagoda SL, and the W108/W109 executive range, including technical lineage and production context.

Key Features

• Comprehensive model history: The book traces complete development and history for each key model, providing readers with a coherent narrative from initial concept to production.
• Focus on important 1960s models: Coverage includes the 230SL/190SL lineage, Pagoda SL, 300SEL 6.3, the 600, and W108/109 executive cars so enthusiasts get a concentrated era study.
• Technical and market context: Discussion of gambles like the 300SEL 6.3 and the oversized 600 explains why Mercedes made certain engineering and marketing choices.
• Author expertise: Written by Bernd S. Koehling, an author of more than twenty-five works on Mercedes, the book benefits from focused archival knowledge and continuity with other volumes.
• Updated edition: The December 2016 update means the text reflects relatively recent research and corrections up to that date, useful for restoration-minded owners.

Who It's For

This volume suits classic Mercedes owners, restorers, and students of automotive history who want a concentrated look at 1960s Mercedes engineering and model strategy. It is particularly helpful to those researching the differences between W108, W109 and the sporting Pagoda SL when assessing originality or provenance.

Readers looking for a lavishly illustrated coffee-table book or a quick pictorial guide should look elsewhere; while the book is detailed in development and history, its strength is textual depth and model analysis rather than large-format photography.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Deep, model-specific history that helps clarify development lines between 230SL, 300SL derivatives, W108/109 and the 600.
• Authoritative voice from an experienced Mercedes historian, placing models in engineering and market context.
• The 270-page format balances depth and manageability for research or reference use.

Cons

• Not a substitute for detailed workshop manuals or full restoration guides when specific repair procedures are required.

Specifications

Title	MERCEDES-BENZ, The 1960s, Volume 2
Author	Bernd S. Koehling
Page count	270 pages
Last updated	Dec. 2016
Models covered	600, Pagoda SL, W108, W109, 230SL, 300SEL 6.3
Format focus	Development and history of models

Our Verdict

This volume is a strong, cost-effective reference for anyone serious about 1960s Mercedes models; it excels at tracing development and model relationships and is good value for restorers and historians who need coherent background rather than workshop-level detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book cover the 300SEL 6.3?
Yes. The book discusses the 300SEL 6.3, including its role as a gamble in Mercedes line-up and its engineering significance.

Is the book illustrated?
The description emphasizes development and history; while illustrations may be present, the primary focus is textual analysis rather than a large-format photo collection.

Who wrote this volume?
It was written by Bernd S. Koehling, an author of over twenty-five books and e-books on Mercedes cars.