Even in the old days I prefer the short wheel base, latter being relative though…
https://www.germancarforum.com/threads/automotive-excellence-the-mercedes-benz-600-grand-mercedes-w-100-celebrates-its-premiere-in-1963.184444/
“The ‘Grand Mercedes’ 600 – The exclusive vehicle of great prestige.” With this headline, the 1963 press release for the premiere of the Mercedes-Benz 600 positioned the vehicle with the internal model series designation W 100 right at the very front of the top group worldwide in the industry...