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Mercedes-Benz S-class W140 500 SE (326 Hp) Automatic
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz S-class:
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, formerly known as "special class" , is a series of full-sized luxury sedans and coupés produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The S-Class is the designation for top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz models and was officially introduced in 1972 with the W116, and has remained in use ever since. The S-Class is the flagship vehicle for Mercedes-Benz, being positioned above the other Mercedes-Benz models.
The S-Class has debuted many of the company's latest innovations, including drivetrain technologies, interior features, and safety systems. The S-Class has ranked as the world's best-selling luxury sedan. In automotive terms, Sonderklasse refers to "a specially outfitted car. " Although used colloquially for decades, following its official application in 1972, six generations of officially named S-Klasse sedans have been produced....(Read more on Wikipedia)
W140 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz S-class (W140). With 480 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 2000 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.7 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The W140 was designed before modern Euro NCAP testing protocols began in 1997. However, it was considered a leader in passive safety for its era, featuring robust construction and advanced safety systems like ABS and multiple airbags (for its time).
500 SE (326 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Impressive power and acceleration, approaching V12 levels of performance.
Fuel Economy
High fuel consumption, but acceptable given the significant power output.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional ride comfort and refinement
- • Robust build quality and imposing presence
- • Timeless, elegant design
- • Powerful and smooth engine options (especially V8/V12)
- • Advanced safety features for its time
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption, particularly for larger engines
- • Complex electronics can lead to costly repairs
- • Large size can be challenging in urban environments and parking
- • Expensive parts and maintenance costs
- • Potential for rust on older, less maintained models
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | S-class |
| Generation: | W140 |
| Modification (Engine): | 500 SE (326 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1991 |
| End of production: | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 326 Hp @ 5700 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 65.6 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 480 Nm @ 3900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 119 E 50 |
| Engine displacement: | 4973 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8 l |
| Coolant: | 16.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 96.5 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 13 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2000 |
| Max. weight: | 2520 |
| Max load: | 520 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 525 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1900 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 100 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5113 mm mm |
| Width: | 1886 mm mm |
| Height: | 1495 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 3040 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1602 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1574 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 12.18 m |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
What’s the best feature of the Mercedes-Benz S-class? Tell us in the comments!