Overview
The W140 S-Class is a series of luxury sedans and wagons produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1991 to 1998. It replaced the W126 S-Class and was available in various trim levels, including the S420, 400SE, and 400SEL.
Design and Features
The W140 S-Class has a sleek, aerodynamic design with a long hood, short rear deck, and pronounced front grille. Its interior is characterized by premium materials, such as leather and wood trim, and cutting-edge technology for its time, including airbags, anti-lock braking (ABS), and electronic stability control.
Engine Options
The W140 S-Class was available with various engine options:
- S420: 4.2L V8 producing 280-295 horsepower
- 400SE: 4.0L V8 producing 230-240 horsepower
- 400SEL: 4.0L V8 producing 210-220 horsepower
Transmission and Drive
The W140 S-Class used a variety of transmissions, including:
- 5-speed manual (optional)
- 4-speed automatic (standard on most models)
- 7-speed semi-automatic (in some European markets)
Drive options included rear-wheel drive (RWD) for the sedans and all-wheel drive (AWD) for the wagons.
Dimensions and Capacity
The W140 S-Class dimensions are:
- Length: 5,035 mm (198.6 in)
- Width: 1,810 mm (71.3 in)
- Height: 1,470 mm (57.9 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,870 mm (112.8 in)
The sedans have a trunk capacity of approximately 450 liters (15.9 cu ft), while the wagons have a cargo area volume of around 590 liters (20.9 cu ft).
Safety Features
The W140 S-Class was one of the first cars to feature advanced safety features, including:
- Dual airbags (driver and passenger)
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Electronic stability control
- Seatbelts with pretensioners
Reliability and Maintenance
The W140 S-Class has a reputation for being reliable, but like any complex machine, it can experience issues. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent problems, including:
- Engine oil leaks
- Coolant system failures
- Transmission troubles
Price and Sales
When new, the W140 S-Class was priced around $50,000-$70,000 (approximately $100,000-$140,000 in today's dollars). Over its production run, it sold over 420,000 units worldwide.
Model Year Changes
The W140 S-Class underwent several updates and facelifts during its production run:
- 1992: Minor styling tweaks
- 1993: Introduction of the S420 model
- 1994: Revised front grille and interior trim
- 1996: Facelift with new headlights, taillights, and rear bumper
Legacy
The W140 S-Class played a significant role in shaping the modern luxury sedan market. Its influence can be seen in subsequent Mercedes-Benz models and those of other manufacturers. Despite some reliability issues, it remains a sought-after collector's item and a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to quality and innovation.
