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Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL (V116) 450 SEL 6.9 (286 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)
SEL (V116) Overview:
Mercedes-Benz S-class (SEL (V116)). With 550 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1935 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.4 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.
450 SEL 6.9 (286 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The flagship engine, offering exceptional power and acceleration for its time, making it a true performance luxury sedan.
Fuel Economy
The least fuel-efficient option, reflecting its massive engine displacement and high performance, best suited for those unconcerned with fuel costs.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional build quality and durability for its era
- • Luxurious and comfortable interior, ideal for long journeys
- • Smooth and powerful V8 engine options, especially the 6.9L
- • Timeless design and classic car appeal
- • Advanced features for its time (e.g., ABS, hydropneumatic suspension on 6.9)
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption across most engine variants
- • Expensive maintenance and parts, especially for specialized components
- • Safety features are rudimentary by modern standards
- • Large exterior dimensions can make city driving challenging
- • Potential for rust if not properly maintained
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(SEL (V116): September, 1973 - January, 1976).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | S-class |
| Generation: | SEL (V116) |
| Modification (Engine): | 450 SEL 6.9 (286 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | September, 1975 |
| End of production: | May, 1980 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 286 Hp @ 4250 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 41.8 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 550 Nm @ 3000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 100.985 More details about the engine M 100.985 |
| Engine displacement: | 6834 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 11 l |
| Coolant: | 16 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 107 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 95 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 8.8:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 16 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 225 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.5 kg/Nm, 284.2 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1935 |
| Max. weight: | 2420 |
| Max load: | 485 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 530 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1200 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 96 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5060 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1870 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1410 mm mm [20mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2960 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1521 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1505 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 12.10 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/70 VR 14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5 J x 14 H 2 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element, Threaded twist beam |
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