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Mercedes-Benz S-class SE (W126) 500 SE V8 (231 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)
SE (W126) Overview:
Mercedes-Benz S-class (SE (W126)). With 405 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1620 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.1 s). The top speed reaches 225 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.
500 SE V8 (231 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A powerful and refined V8, offering effortless acceleration and superb highway cruising capabilities for its era. A true luxury performance statement.
Fuel Economy
As expected for a large V8 of the period, fuel consumption is high, making it less economical for daily city driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional build quality and durability
- • Superb ride comfort and refinement
- • Timeless, elegant design
- • Advanced safety features for its era (ABS, airbags)
- • Powerful and smooth V8 engine options
- • Excellent long-distance cruiser
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption, especially for V8 models
- • Maintenance can be costly for specific parts
- • Dated technology compared to modern cars
- • Potential for rust if not well-maintained
- • Large size can be challenging in urban environments
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(SEL (V126): October, 1979 - October, 1981).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | S-class |
| Generation: | SE (W126) |
| Modification (Engine): | 500 SE V8 (231 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | October, 1981 |
| End of production: | September, 1985 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 231 Hp @ 4750 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 46.5 Hp/l [140mm less] |
| Torque: | 405 Nm @ 3000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 117 E 50 / 117.963 More details about the engine M 117 E 50 / 117.963 |
| Engine displacement: | 4973 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 9 l |
| Coolant: | 13.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 96.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 15.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 225 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7 kg/Hp, 142.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4 kg/Nm, 250 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.7 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1620 |
| Max. weight: | 2140 |
| Max load: | 520 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 505 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 90 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4995 mm [140mm less] |
| Width: | 1820 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1436 mm [4mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2930 mm [140mm less] |
| Front track: | 1545 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1517 mm |
| 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 [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Threaded twist beam |
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-class your dream ride or just a daily drive? Let's talk!