The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W140 S500 Coupé (also known as CL500) was a high-performance variant of the S-Class range produced from 1993 to 1998. It shared its platform and many components with the W140 S-Class sedan, but featured a more sloping front grille, a slightly longer wheelbase, and a distinctive coupé-style body.
Design and Features:
The CL500 Coupé had a sleek and aerodynamic design, with a drag coefficient of 0.30. The front bumper was redesigned to house a more aggressive-looking grille, while the rear featured a subtle spoiler and quad exhaust outlets. The interior was luxurious, with premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and advanced technology features such as an AMG-designed instrument cluster.
Performance:
Under its hood, the CL500 Coupé boasted a potent 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced 322 horsepower (240 kW) at 5,500 rpm, paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shifting. This resulted in acceleration from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.3 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
Suspension and Brakes:
The CL500 Coupé was equipped with a five-link front suspension and a multi-link rear setup, ensuring agile handling and stability on various road surfaces. It also featured four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated rotors at the front, for improved stopping power.
Interior and Comfort:
Inside, passengers enjoyed premium comfort features such as climate-controlled air conditioning, an AM/FM radio cassette player with equalizer, a trip computer, and power-adjustable seats. The optional leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift allowed drivers to customize their experience further.
Safety Features:
The CL500 Coupé featured advanced safety technologies for the time, including dual front airbags, side impact protection, and a comprehensive electronic stability program (ESP). This enabled stable vehicle dynamics even in adverse weather conditions or with aggressive driving.
Colors and Trim Levels:
Mercedes-Benz offered several exterior colors for the CL500 Coupé, including Alabaster White, Brilliant Silver Metallic, and Starlight Black. Interior trim levels included premium leather upholstery in various colors, complemented by wood trim and optional heated seats.
Production and Discontinuation:
The Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class range was produced from 1991 to 1998, with the CL500 Coupé being part of this lineup. As a result of declining sales and increased competition from other luxury coupés, production ended in 1998 after just over five years on the market.
Legacy:
The Mercedes-Benz CL500 Coupé was a highly regarded model for its performance, luxurious appointments, and advanced safety features. Despite being discontinued over two decades ago, it remains a sought-after collector's item among enthusiasts of luxury cars from this era.
