The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 420 SE/SEL/SEC is a high-end luxury sedan produced from 1979 to 1985. It was available in three main variants: SE (Special Equipment), SEL (Special Equipment Low), and SEC (Special Equipment Coupe).
SE Variant
- Engine: M117 4.2-liter inline-six cylinder
- Power output: 222-240 horsepower (dependent on country-specific emissions regulations)
- Transmission: 3-speed automatic or 4-speed manual
- Drive type: Rear-wheel drive
- Chassis and body: Steel unibody with a self-supporting construction, featuring a unitary design for the front suspension
- Dimensions:
- Length: 5.2 meters (171 inches)
- Width: 1.8 meters (66 inches)
- Height: 1.4 meters (55 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3 meters (119 inches)
- Interior and features:
- Leather-upholstered seats with adjustable lumbar support
- Heated front seats
- Wood trim on the dashboard and doors
- Central locking system with remote control
- Optional: AM/FM radio, cassette player, and a rear window sunshade
SEL Variant
- Identical to the SE variant, but with the addition of:
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Tinted glass throughout (including the rear window)
- A more extensive sound insulation package for improved noise reduction
- Optional: Rear spoilers and side skirts
SEC Variant
- Engine: M117 4.2-liter inline-six cylinder, with a slight power increase to 245 horsepower
- Transmission: 3-speed automatic or 4-speed manual
- Drive type: Rear-wheel drive
- Chassis and body: Same as the SE and SEL variants, but with a distinct coupe roofline
- Dimensions:
- Length: 5.2 meters (171 inches)
- Width: 1.8 meters (66 inches)
- Height: 1.3 meters (51 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3 meters (119 inches)
- Interior and features:
- Leather-upholstered seats with adjustable lumbar support
- Heated front seats
- Wood trim on the dashboard and doors
- Central locking system with remote control
- Optional: AM/FM radio, cassette player, and a rear window sunshade
Safety Features
- The S-Class W126 was the first production vehicle to feature an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard equipment in some markets.
- Dual airbags were also available as an optional feature.
Performance and Fuel Economy
- Top speed: 220-240 km/h (137-150 mph), depending on the engine variant
- Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (62 mph): around 7 seconds
- Fuel economy:
- Urban: 10-12 liters per 100 kilometers (22.5-24.6 mpg)
- Extra urban: 5-7 liters per 100 kilometers (47.8-63.3 mpg)
W126 Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 was a groundbreaking model that set new standards for luxury sedans and coupes in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its combination of comfort, performance, and innovative features made it a benchmark for the automotive industry.
