1.) You're right, W108/9-model Mercedes styling is certainly not extravagant, nor really meant to be. Rather it was traditional & conservative yet beautifully proportioned machine with fine detailing. (Btw the spare is easily accessible
no compulsary hernia, unlike Caddy) Also uber functional due to very low belt-line & all corners visible. In other words, a bullseye for its market niche
2.) I suppose the same could be said of Cadillac, although those jutting headlight nacelles are a tad over the top for my taste - certainly a 'W' front-styling theme taken to extreme! Conversely the '68 Eldorado was/is a stunningly attractive motor car
3.) I only sold my 1970 Benz 280SE (also a W108) this October, bought it in '00. It was a rock-solid & very likeable car, proved itself 100% reliable for me. Oil consumption was fantastic, only one pint needed every 5000kms. The clutch was last replaced in 1984! With known history since new she was in daily use for 35 years but had only required one engine rebuild. But original gearbox, steering box, diff & was still going great when I sold it
In my experience a lousy mechanic can ruin any car (or reputation)
4.) And I agree that overall the '60s era was a high watermark for US car styling