The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W116 was produced from 1972 to 1980 and marked a significant evolution in luxury sedan design. Characterized by its sleek, yet angular lines, the W116 was designed to be more aerodynamic than its predecessors while maintaining a strong presence on the road.
Key features of the W116 include:
- A lengthened wheelbase for improved ride comfort
- An increased use of steel and aluminum in the body structure to enhance safety and reduce weight
- A sleeker, more curved roofline that provided a sense of openness and spaciousness inside
- Larger windows, including a fixed rear window, to improve visibility and natural light
Engine options were varied, with the base model featuring a 3.5-liter M116 engine producing 204 horsepower. Other options included a 4.5-liter M117 V8 producing 238 horsepower, and a high-performance 6.9-liter M100 V8 delivering 315 horsepower.
Interior features of the W116 included:
- Luxurious materials such as leather, wood, and premium plastics
- Advanced safety features like seatbelts for all passengers and anti-lock brakes (optional)
- A state-of-the-art sound system designed by Becker
- Heated seats, cruise control, and air conditioning as optional amenities
The W116 was also notable for its advanced technology at the time of its release. It featured a range of innovative safety features, including:
- An integrated crumple zone in the front bumper to help absorb impact energy
- A reinforced rear structure designed to provide additional protection in the event of a collision
- Optional anti-lock braking system (ABS) that helped prevent wheels from locking up during hard braking
The W116 was also notable for its popularity among taxi fleets and government agencies, who valued its reliability and durability. Despite being based on an older platform, the W116 managed to maintain its appeal through the late 1970s and into the early 1980s, before being replaced by the all-new S-Class W126 in 1981.
In summary, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W116 was a significant iteration of the luxury sedan, offering improved safety features, advanced technology, and luxurious appointments. Its sleek design and robust engineering helped establish it as one of the most sought-after sedans of its time, with many owners continuing to appreciate its qualities even after its discontinuation.
