Mercedes L 3250 
Production of the first new Mercedes truck model after the second world war began in 1949. Called the L 3250, it was a 3.25-tonne truck powered by a new diesel engine, the OM 312. The engine had an output of 90 horsepower from six cylinders at a displacement of 4.6 litres. LK tipper, LS tractor and LA all wheel drive models were also available.

In 1950 an L 3500 model became available with an uprated payload of 3.5 tonnes, then in 1954 a turbocharged version of the engine became available, named the OM 312 A. It produced 115 horsepower but was not highly popular among customers. In 1954 the Mercedes truck name designation system was changed, therefore the L 3250 and L 3500 became the L 311.

The L 311 turned out to be an incredibly popular truck, quickly becoming the market leader in its class. The model was produced for a 12 year period of 1949-1961. They were popular in countries such as Argentina, Brazil and India where unassembled panels and parts were shipped there to be constructed locally.

LS 3500 tractor unit 

There were multiple wheelbase configurations available which made the L 311 a very versatile truck which could be adapted for many purposes. 

Pictured to the left is an LS 3500, the "S" meaning articulated tractor, there is not much information on these vehicles. The photograph dates from 1951.



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