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Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL (V126, facelift 1985) 420 SEL V8 (218 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 (V126, facelift 1985) Overview:
Mercedes-Benz S-class (SEL (V126, facelift 1985)). With 330 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1630 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.3 s). The top speed reaches 218 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.
420 SEL V8 (218 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Excellent power delivery, smooth and responsive, providing a strong and capable driving experience without the catalytic converter's power reduction.
Fuel Economy
High fuel consumption, typical for a large V8 of the era, especially without a CAT.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless and elegant design, a true classic
- • Exceptional build quality and robust engineering
- • Luxurious and spacious interior with superior comfort
- • Smooth and refined ride quality
- • Powerful V8 engine options offering strong performance
- • Advanced safety features for its era (e.g., ABS)
- • Strong classic car appeal and investment potential
Cons:
- • Poor fuel economy, especially with the larger V8 engines
- • High maintenance and repair costs due to age and complexity
- • Parts availability can be challenging for specific components
- • Large size can be cumbersome in modern urban environments
- • Lacks modern safety and infotainment technologies
- • Potential for rust in neglected examples
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W223: July, 2021 - ).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | S-class |
| Generation: | SEL (V126, facelift 1985) |
| Modification (Engine): | 420 SEL V8 (218 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | June, 1985 |
| End of production: | September, 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 218 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 52 Hp/l [19mm less] |
| Torque: | 330 Nm @ 3750 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 116 E 42 / 116.965 More details about the engine M 116 E 42 / 116.965 |
| Engine displacement: | 4196 |
| 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: | 8 l |
| Coolant: | 12.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 92 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 78.9 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 8.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 218 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.9 kg/Nm, 202.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1630 |
| Max. weight: | 2150 |
| Max load: | 520 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 90 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5160 mm [19mm less] |
| Width: | 1820 mm [134mm less] |
| Height: | 1441 mm [62mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3070 mm [36mm less] |
| Front track: | 1555 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1527 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: 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
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