View source for Mercedes-Benz W126

{{For|complete overview of all S-Class models|Mercedes-Benz S-Class}}
{{short description|Car model}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Mercedes-Benz W126
| image = 1984 Mercedes-Benz 380 SE (W 126) sedan (2015-08-07) 01.jpg
| caption = 1984 Mercedes-Benz 380 SE (W126)
| related = [[Monteverdi Tiara]]
| layout = [[FR layout]]
| assembly = Germany: [[Sindelfingen]]<br/>Malaysia: [[Johor Bahru]] (OASB)<ref name="Oriental Assemblers Sdn. Bhd., History 1967-1987">{{cite web|author=Leeps |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1309&dat=19890604&id=tKFUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=NpADAAAAIBAJ&pg=5932,900833&hl=en |title=Rust Busters |publisher=[[New Straits Times]] |date=1989-06-04 |accessdate=2015-05-03}}</ref><br />South Africa: [[East London, Eastern Cape|East London]]
| manufacturer = [[Daimler-Benz]]
| production = {{ubl | December 1979 – October 1991 (sedan) | September 1981 – October 1991 (coupé) | ?–1994 (sedan, South Africa)}}
| predecessor = [[Mercedes-Benz W116]] (sedan)<br />[[Mercedes-Benz R107 and C107|Mercedes-Benz C107]] (coupé)
| successor = [[Mercedes-Benz W140]]<br />[[Mercedes-Benz C140]] (coupé)
| class = [[Full-size]] [[Luxury vehicle#High-end luxury.2Ffull-size luxury cars|luxury car]] ([[F-segment|F]])<br />[[Grand tourer]] (C126)
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br />2-door [[coupé]] (C126)
| transmission = 4-speed [[4G-TRONIC]] [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]<br />4-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]<br />5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]
| engine = '''[[Straight-5]]'''<br />3.0&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz OM617 engine|OM617]] [[Diesel engine|diesel]]<br />'''[[Straight-6]]'''<br />2.6&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M103 engine|M103]]<br />2.8&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M110 engine|M110]]<br />3.0&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M103 engine|M103]]<br />3.0&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz OM603|OM603]] [[Diesel engine|diesel]]<br />3.5&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz OM603|OM603]] [[Diesel engine|diesel]]<br />'''[[V8 engine|V8]]'''<br />3.8&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M116 engine|M116]]<br />4.2&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M116 engine|M116]]<br />5.0&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M117 engine|M117]]<br />5.5&nbsp;L [[Mercedes-Benz M117 engine|M117]]
| designer = [[Bruno Sacco]] (sedan: 1975, 1976; coupe: 1977)
| wheelbase = Sedan (SWB): {{convert|2935|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Sedan (LWB): {{convert|3075|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Coupe: {{convert|2850|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| length = Sedan (SWB): {{convert|4995|-|5020|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Sedan (LWB): {{convert|5135|-|5160|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Coupe: {{convert|4910|-|4935|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| width = Sedan: {{convert|1820|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Coupe: {{convert|1828|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = Sedan (SWB): {{convert|1430|-|1437|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Sedan (LWB): {{convert|1441|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Coupe: {{convert|1406|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
}}

The '''Mercedes-Benz W126''' is the company's internal designation for its second generation [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class|
S-Class]], manufactured in sedan (1979-1991) and coupe (1981-1990) configurations, succeeding the company's [[Mercedes-Benz W116|W116]] range.

Mercedes introduced the 2-door C126 [[coupé]] model, marketed as the "SEC", in September 1981, based on the standard wheelbase S-Class sedan.

Over the twelve years,1979-1991,<ref name=W126history/><ref name=S-Klasse>{{cite web|url=http://www.s-klasse-club.de/gb/geschichte-126.html|title=S-Klasse Club information|accessdate=2007-05-13|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928010431/http://www.s-klasse-club.de/gb/geschichte-126.html|archivedate=2007-09-28}}</ref> W126 S-Class production reached 892,123 &mdash; including 818,063 sedans and 74,060 coupés. It is the most successful S-Class in term of the number of units produced and the duration it was in production.

The S-class nameplate is an abbreviation for the German ''Sonderklasse'' or "special class."

== History ==
Following the debut of the 1970s generation [[Mercedes-Benz W116|W116]] (which also included the limited-production [[Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9]]), Mercedes-Benz began plans for the next-generation S-Class model in October 1973. Codenamed "project W126,"<ref name=W126history/> the project aimed to provide an improved ride, better handling, and improved [[fuel efficiency]],<ref name=S-Klasse/> to help retain the model's marketing position.<ref name=W126history/> Mercedes-Benz made fuel efficiency a goal (named "Energy Program"),<ref name=W126page>{{cite web |url=http://home.concepts.nl/~vlimmere/index2.HTM |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990302052806/http://home.concepts.nl/%7Evlimmere/index2.HTM |url-status=dead |archive-date=1999-03-02 |title=The unofficial W126 homepage – model history |publisher=Home.concepts.nl |accessdate=2011-10-16 }}</ref> in the large [[V8 engine]]d versions of the S-Class.

The W126 design team, led by Mercedes-Benz's [[Bruno Sacco]], aimed to design a more [[aerodynamic]] shape than the previous model. The application of lighter materials and alloys combined with thorough wind tunnel testing to reduce overall drag meant the car consumed about 10% less fuel than its predecessor.<ref name=S-Klasse/> The W126 featured the first seatbelt [[Seat belt#Pretensioners and webclamps|pretensioners]].<ref name=W126history>{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/2188/|title=Ian Dunross Mercedes-Benz W126 S-class Homepage|accessdate=2007-05-15|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070806112653/http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/2188/|archivedate=2007-08-06}}</ref>

After six years of development, the W126 was introduced at the [[Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung]] (International Motor Show, or IAA) in [[Frankfurt]] on September 1979.<ref name=Keesings79>{{cite journal | title = Salon van Frankfurt is aanklacht tegen politieke machthebbers | trans-title = Frankfurt Show is an indictment of political leaders | language = Dutch | journal = Keesings Auto Magazine | location = Antwerp, Belgium | date = 1979-09-15 | volume = 2 | number = 17 | pages = 16–18 | editor-last = Rombauts | editor-first = Walter }}</ref> The initial range featured seven models in standard (S S-KLasse-Vergaser, SE S-Klasse-Einspritzmotor, SD S-Klasse-Diesel) and long (SEL, SDL) wheelbase [[sedan (car)|sedan]] [[body style]]s: the 280 S/SE/SEL, 380 SE/SEL, 500 SE/SEL and 300 SD. The long-wheelbase (SEL) variants were internally codenamed V126.<ref name=W126history/> In 1981, the coupé version C126 (SEC, acronym for ([[German language|German]]) '''S'''-Klasse-'''E'''inspritzmotor-'''C'''oupé) of the W126 S-Class premiered at the IAA with the 500 SEC model. In 1981, ''[[Wheels Magazine]]'' selected the W126 model 380 SE as its [[Wheels Car of the Year|Car of the Year]].<ref name=wheelsmag>{{cite web|url=http://www.wheelsmag.com.au/wheels/site/articleIDs/C40CA2CB6C8577F1CA257285001E7302?open&template=domWheels |title=Wheels' COTY the real McCoy |last=Gable |first=Chris |accessdate=2007-05-15 |date=2008-09-04 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927115318/http://www.wheelsmag.com.au/wheels/site/articleIDs/C40CA2CB6C8577F1CA257285001E7302?open&template=domWheels |archivedate=2007-09-27 }}</ref>

Although the top of range Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 of the previous generation was not directly replaced, the W126 carried forward the [[hydropneumatic suspension]] of the 6.9 as an option on the 500 SEL and later on 420 SEL and 560 SEL models.

Four years after the introduction of the fuel-efficiency "Energieskonzept" (Energy Concept) in 1981, the model range was extensively revised. In September 1985, again at the [[International Motor Show Germany#1985|IAA]] in [[Frankfurt]], the revised model range was introduced. Apart from visual changes to the bumpers, side covers and larger 15-inch wheels with a new design on the hubcaps and alloys (optional), there where technical upgrades as well as revised engine availability. A new generation of [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] petrol and diesel engines and new 4.2- and 5.5-litre V8s were added, and other engines were revised.

The W126 generation was replaced by the [[Mercedes-Benz W140|W140]] in 1991, although a satellite factory in South Africa continued limited production until 1994.

== Styling ==
[[File:1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL (V 126) sedan (23188230022).jpg|thumb|Facelift Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL (V126)]]

From 1973 to 1975, Mercedes-Benz designers worked on the successor to the [[Mercedes-Benz W116|W116]]. In December 1975, after several design concepts being presented, the design for the W126 S-Class was approved and frozen in 1976.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://home.concepts.nl/~vlimmere/the_facts.HTM |title=The Facts |accessdate=2013-05-02 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://archive.is/20130616071432/http://home.concepts.nl/~vlimmere/the_facts.HTM |archivedate=2013-06-16 }}</ref> Design work on the coupe began immediately afterward, being finalized in 1977. 

Compared to its predecessor, the W116, the W126 featured improved aerodynamics (with a [[drag coefficient]] of Cd 0.36 for the sedans, 0.34 for the coupés).<ref name="W126history" /> The W126 was the first Mercedes equipped with polyurethane deformable bumpers.<ref name="S-Klasse" /> Design patents were first filed on March 3, 1977 and later on September 6, 1977 at the United States Patent Office.<ref>http://www.google.com/patents/USD258425</ref>

In 1985, Mercedes-Benz issued a facelift for the W126, with revised bumpers, body side protection mouldings, and wheel designs. The 14" alloy rims largely standardized throughout the MB family since 1969 were replaced with the 15-slot flat-faced silver painted alloy rims.

The interior featured pleated [[leather]] on the doors and leather seats in the North American markets; while global markets offered velour seating trim. Zebrano wood trim was used on all S-Class models during the first phase of the generation's run (1979-1985) with burled walnut available in the second phase (1986-1991) the 560SEC and 560SEL.

== Models ==
[[File:1984 Mercedes-Benz 380 SE (W 126) sedan (2015-08-07) 02.jpg|thumb|right|Pre-facelift Mercedes-Benz W126 380 SE (standard wheelbase version)]]
[[File:1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL (V 126) sedan (23213887641).jpg|right|thumb|Facelift Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL V126 (long-wheelbase version)]]
[[File:Mercedes 300 se.jpg|thumb|right|Facelift 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE]]
[[File:Mercedes Benz 500 SEC 1983 (15003999886).jpg|thumb|right|Pre-facelift Mercedes-Benz C126 SEC (coupe)]]
[[File:1984 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC (14763026989) (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Pre-facelift Mercedes-Benz C126 SEC (coupe)]]
[[File:Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC (C 126, Facelift) – Frontansicht, 10. August 2013, Hilden.jpg|thumb|right|Facelift Mercedes-Benz C126 SEC (coupe)]]
[[File:1987 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC (C126) (4986758107).jpg|thumb|right|Facelift Mercedes-Benz C126 SEC (coupe)]]

The W126 series (named in accordance to their engine size) initially included the 280, 300, 380, and 500 series models. Following the first S-Class mid-cycle refresh, the W126 series included 260, 300, 350, 420, 500, and 560 models. Variants included SE ([[wheelbase|standard wheelbase]]), SEL ([[wheelbase|long-wheelbase]]), SEC (coupé), and diesel models (SD and SDL).

== Features ==
Features included the following safety, comfort, and technological features. 

=== Safety ===
[[File:500 SEL W126 1.jpg|thumb|right|Late model W126 with Airbag, leather seats, and Burlwood interior wood trim. Left hand Drive.]]

* Use of high strength low alloy steel (HSLA) in its construction to reduce the weight without compromising the structural strength and integrity.
* [[Anti-lock braking system]] (ABS) (first appeared in its predecessor, the W116) was standard on 500 SEL and 500 SEC and optional for the rest of model range until 1985. The ABS eventually became standard for the entire model range during the second series (1986-1991).
* [[Seat belt]] pretensioners ETR enabled all seat belts (with exception of rear centre shoulder belt on sedans) to tighten when the car sensed conditions that could lead to an accident (such as sudden, forceful braking or sudden deceleration during the collision).
* [[Crumple zones]] front and rear which absorbed impact energies, reducing passenger injury.
* [[Fluted taillight|Fluted taillamps]], the design pioneered on the R107, was carried over. The fluted design maintains the visibility of taillamps when the dirt accumulates on the outer edges.
* [[Airbag|Driver's airbags]] were introduced in 1981 as an extra-cost option for all models and engines. From September 1987 on, the passenger's airbags were added as extra-cost option for the 1988 model year. The consumers could choose either driver's airbag only or driver's and passenger's airbags. For the US market, the driver's airbags were standard from 1987 onward due to the federal regulations; the passenger's airbags were extra cost option until 1989 when they became standard for models with V8 engines only and 1991 for the rest of model range.
* [[Traction control system]] (TCS), also known as [[Acceleration Slip Regulation]] (ASR) to prevent [[wheelspin]] (a Mercedes-Benz first). Available only on European models from 1989 until the model year 1991, when it was introduced on 560 SEL and SEC models in the United States for that last production year only.
* A [[third brakelight|third brake lamp]] in the centre of rear windscreen was federally mandated from 1986 model year on for the US version only. In some markets, it was offered as standard or extra-cost option.

=== Comfort and convenience ===
[[File:1981 Mercedes Benz W126 Interior Blue.jpg|thumb|Early model W126 without airbag, MB-Tex seats, and Zebrano interior wood trim. Right Hand Drive.]]

* [[Automotive lighting#Convenience lights|Courtesy lights]] on the underside of the doors, to enable the occupant to see the ground when exiting the vehicle at night.
* Rear reading lamps were fitted to the C-pillar enabling rear passengers to read or work at night without distracting the driver. Extra cost options for the rear seat passengers were: individually adjusted seat heaters (never offered in coupé models during its entire production run); bench seat that can move forward and back electrically by 10 cm (long wheelbase models only); foot rests; from 1987 on, rear windscreen window shades that are electrically raised and lowered by switch on centre console; and the back of front seats are contoured as to give more legroom. 
* From 1979 to 1984, the driver and front passenger seat heaters were separate extra-cost options. From 1985 to 1991, both driver and front passenger seat heaters were offered as a single extra-cost option.
* Beginning with 1985 model year, the rear individual seats and centre console as appeared in coupé model could be fitted to the long wheelbase models if the owner desires, giving the car a [[2%2B2_(car_body_style)|2+2]] seating format. The individual seat is electrically adjustable by moving forward and back only.
* An optional fully automatic [[climate control]] system that used an interior temperature sensor to more accurately climatise the cabin. This sensor was mounted overhead (near the sunroof switch) so that when the roof was open, the sensor would detect cool air-flow and call upon the system to adjust heat flow accordingly.
* Exterior [[temperature sensor]] with [[LCD]] display set in main instrument console below the speedometer to inform the driver of exterior conditions. This was delineated in Fahrenheit for US-market cars and in Celsius for the rest of the world.
* Due to the B-pillar moving further back in the coupé models with longer doors, Mercedes-Benz developed seat belt presenters. When the doors are closed and the motor started, the presenters extend the shoulder anchor points forward to the driver and front passenger by about 30 cm. This facilitates easier reach and grab of seat belts. Once the seat belts are anchored or after 30 seconds, the presenters descended back into the B-pillar.
* W126 premiered the power seat control, a first for Mercedes-Benz. Instead of placing the toggle or button switches with same shapes in the hard to reach or see areas, Mercedes-Benz developed the haptic switches in shape of a seat: one switch resembling the seat back is for adjusting the seat back; another switch resembling the seat is for moving the seat forward and back as well as raising and lowering. The two memory function buttons allow the front occupants to set and select their preferred positions accordingly. After the 17-year patent expired, this design was widely copied by other manufacturers in the late 1990s. Another first for Mercedes-Benz is an electrically adjustable steering column that extends and contracts by toggle switch underneath the steering column. The steering column position can be stored in the driver's side memory function along with the preferred seat position.
* W126 was first from Mercedes-Benz to have the theft deterrent system as option installed at the factory. EDW (Einbruch-Diebstahl-Warnanlage, break-in theft alarm system) can emit the alarm sound and immobilise several components (radio, brakes, ignition lock, and a few others) if the car was being towed away or if any of hood/bonnet, trunk/boot, doors were forcibly opened. From 1984 on for the models with central locking system, the owner can turn the front door lock further to bolt the doors as to make them very difficult to be forcibly opened. The owner can order the separate bolt system for the trunk/bolt, making it equally difficult to pry the trunk/boot open. They require a special key with red dot.

=== Drivetrain technologies ===
* Four-speed [[automatic transmission]] has a new topographical sensor that improved the drivability by monitoring the vehicle's position (flat surface, incline, or decline) and the position of throttle pedal. This prevents the unintended acceleration when coasting downhill without the frequent braking to maintain the speed. The Second Series has a "hill-hold" feature that prevents the vehicle from rolling back suddenly when disengaging the brake and engaging the throttle pedals at the steep incline. The transmission in European models has a S/W switch to allow the start in either first (Standard) or second (Winter) gear respectively. The topographical sensor also offers a better driving experience with cruise control by adjusting the throttle smoothly and automatically without sudden lurching or decelerating when maintaining the desired speed. 
* The W126 carried forward the [[self-levelling suspension|self-leveling]] [[hydropneumatic suspension]] of the W116 450 SEL 6.9 model. Like the W116 and W123, the rear-wheel hydropneumatic suspension system was offered in W126 as an option. The four-wheel hydropneumatic suspension system, updated and named HPF II, was available as extra cost option for 380 SEL and 500 SEL from 1981 to 1985 and never for the rest of the model range or two-door models (380 SEC and 500 SEC). It was offered in 500 SE for a very brief time in 1985. For the Second Series (1986-1991), the hydropneumatic suspension was heavily redesigned and named HPF III. The HPF III automatically lowers the chassis by 24 mm when the vehicle is travelled at least 120 km/h for improved aerodynamic flow and better high speed stability. The system adjusts the dampering rate from soft to hard based on speed and road condition for extra comfort and better drivability. Additionally, the driver can select to raise the car by 35 mm if travelling over coarse-surfaced road (only up to 80 km/h). From 1986 to 1990, the HPF III option was available in 420 SEL, 500 SEL, 560 SE, and 560SEL. For the final year of production, HPF III was available in longer wheelbase only (420 SEL, 500 SEL, and 560 SEL). Due to its complexity and tendency to fail catastrophically, HPF III was very difficult to service and was often, at the owner's request, removed and replaced with coil springs and shock absorbers from models without hydropneumatic suspension system.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://5komma6.mercedes-benz-passion.com/der-w126-damals/innovationen/hydropneumatische-federung-hpf/ |work=MBpassion |accessdate=30 December 2019 |lang=de |title=Hydropneumatische Federung (HPF)}}</ref> 
* At the 1983 [[International_Motor_Show_Germany|International Motor Show Frankfurt]], Mercedes-Benz introduced Reiserechner, its first trip computer option, in W126 for the 1984 model year.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://5komma6.mercedes-benz-passion.com/der-w126-damals/innovationen/reiserechner/ |lang=de |title=Reiserechner |work=MBpassion |accessdate=30 December 2019}}</ref> The trip computer has a rectangular control panel on the centre console between the power window switches and the round information panel in the instrument clusters. A panel occupies the gauge cluster formerly used by tachometer, which moved to the left gauge cluster, sharing with oil, fuel, and temperature gauges. The information panel contains a large horizontal LCD display in the middle. Each of four sections has three arrows, illuminating the driver's selection. The upper left section is ZEIT (time); the upper right, WEG (route); lower left, GESCHW. (GESCHWINDIGKEIT, speed); lower right, VEBR. (VERBRAUCH, fuel consumption). The control panel has a large raised cross in the middle, dividing the panel into four corresponding sections of two buttons each in a four-by-two grid. The haptic touch allows the driver to feel his way around the control buttons without taking his eyes off the road: a typical Mercedes-Benz safety consideration. The four buttons in the middle allow the driver to select ZEIT, WEG, GESCHW., or VEBR.: the selection of their subfunctions is cycled through by pressing the button a few times. Two buttons on left side are for selecting short distance (K = KURZSTRECKENBETRIEB) and activation for inputting the number (P = PROGRAMMIERTASTE). Two buttons on right side are for selecting long distance (L = LANGSTRECKENBETRIEB) and deactivation of inputting the number (E = EINGABEABSCHLUẞTASTE). The top row of buttons (K, upper-left section, upper-right section, and L) has input of 1000, 100, 10, and 1, which are activated by pressing P and deactived by E. The option was dropped in W126 a few years later due to its complexity of configuring the trip computer, requiring an accompanying 18-page instruction handbook to understand its operation, and due to the frequent failure of its control panel buttons.

== Engines ==

'''First Series (1979-1985)'''

At the introduction in September 1979, the 2.8-litre [[DOHC]] six-cylinder inline [[Mercedes-Benz M110 engine|M110]] engine for 280 S, 280 SE, and 280 SEL was carried over from W116. The new generation of  [[Mercedes-Benz M116 engine|M116]]/[[Mercedes-Benz M117 engine|M117]] V8 engines had a significant innovation: aluminium block without iron sleeves as found in the competitors’ engines. Mercedes-Benz developed a special [[silicon]] coating as to harden the cylinder liners against excessive wear and tear. The V8 engines were offered in two sizes: 3.8 litres (M116) and 5.0 litres (M117). The smaller of two V8 engines was offered in the US market only, which turned out to be a disaster, both due to timing chain repair issues, and to being severely underpowered, with 0-60 acceleration in a leisurely 11 seconds and a modest top speed of {{convert|117|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}. <ref name=HBG>{{cite web|url=https://www.hagerty.com/media/car-profiles/definitive-1979-92-mercedes-benz-w126-s-class-buyers-guide/|title=Your definitive 1979-92 Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class buyer’s guide|author=Chris Chin|publisher=Hagerty Group LLC|date=24 October 2019|accessdate=9 September 2020}}</ref> <ref name=US380SEL>{{cite web|url=https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1982/1476290/mercedes-benz_380_sel.html|title=1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL (aut. 4) (model since mid-year 1981 for North America U.S.) car specifications & performance data review|accessdate=9 September 2020}}</ref> The S-Class coupés were fitted with V8 engines only for the first time.

The 3.0-litre five-cylinder inline [[Mercedes-Benz OM617 engine|OM617]] diesel engine was carried over from [[Mercedes-Benz W116|W116]] with same performance. Inexplicably, the diesel engines were again never offered in the markets outside United States and Canada. The lethargic acceleration, roughness, and lower top speed might not appeal to the European consumers who had higher expectations for the large saloons. This discrepancy wasn't addressed until 1994 when [[Mercedes-Benz W140|W140]] S 350 TURBODIESEL was introduced in Europe for the first time.

In 1981, Mercedes-Benz introduced the “Energiekonzepts” (Energy Concept) programme in reducing the fuel consumption. This programme revised the combustion chambers and piston heads with lower compression ratio in the V8 engines. This revision caused further drop in engine performance.

'''Second Series (1986-1991)'''

For the second series introduced in September 1985, the engine range was extensively revised with new six-cylinder inline engines and enlarged V8 engines. Only 5.0-litre M117 V8 was carried over from the first series, expanding the V8 engine range to three.

The revised engine range focused more on reducing pollution and fuel consumption even further. For the first time, the customers outside US and Canadian markets could choose the models with or without catalysators. The models without catalysators can be retrofitted with [[Catalytic converter|catalysators]] at later date if the customers choose to: this retrofit method is called RÜF (Rückrüstfahrzeug — loosely translated as retrofit vehicle). The RÜF models had a mechanical switch in the engine bay to be operated by owners for running on lead or lead-free fuels, a necessary feature for driving outside Germany or in areas within Germany where the lead-free fuel wasn't widespread yet. In 1990, all engines were fitted with catalysators only.

The new six-cylinder inline [[Mercedes-Benz M103 engine|M103]] engine had a single overhead camshaft and electronic-mechanical fuel injection and was available in two sizes: 2.6 and 3.0 litres. The carburetted engine fitted to 280 S was eliminated, marking the end of carburetted engines for S-Class, and replaced with fuel-injected engines for 260 and 300.

The V8 engines were again bored out to 4.2 litres from 3.8 litres for 420 (M116) and 5.5 litres from 5.0 litres for 560 (M117) while 5.0-litre V8 for 500 (M117) was carried over. The V8 engines were fitted with new electronic ignition system and [[Robert Bosch GmbH|Bosch]] [[Jetronic#KE-Jetronic (1985-1993)|KE-Jetronic]] [[Fuel injection#Electronic injection|electronic-mechanical fuel injection system]], first appeared in [[Mercedes-Benz W201|W201]] 190E. The revised V8 engines except 5.0-litre version had slight performance increase.

The most powerful engine ever fitted to W126 S-Class was 5.5-litre V8, putting out 221&nbsp;kW (300 PS, 296&nbsp;bhp). This engine, classified as ECE-Variante (German name), has higher compression ratio of 10:5 and cannot be retrofitted with catalysator at later date. In September 1986, the ECE-Variante was superseded by RÜF-Variante, which retains the same horsepower figure without catalysator and lower figure if retrofitted with catalysator at later date. The 560 SEL with 221&nbsp;kW engine was fastest large saloon, reaching 250&nbsp;km/h (155&nbsp;mph), until [[BMW 7 Series (E32)|BMW 750i/750iL]] was introduced in 1987 with ''ungoverned'' top speed of 300&nbsp;km/h (186&nbsp;mph). Its performance was comparable to [[Porsche 911 (classic)#3.2 Carrera / E, F, G, H, I, J and K series (1984–1989)|Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2]] or [[Ferrari Mondial]]. In 1990, 560 SEL had a reduced horsepower figure to {{convert|200|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on|0}}

For the US and Canadian markets, a new 3.0-litre six-cylinder inline [[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]] diesel engine was introduced, replacing five-cylinder engine with same displacement. It was a first six-cylinder passenger diesel engine by Mercedes-Benz. This new engine was available in long wheelbase version only, 300 SDL, for the first time. For California, the diesel engines were fitted with diesel particulate filter, a world's first for the passenger car. The new engine had an ill-gotten reputation for higher percentage of aluminium cylinder head failure due to poor placement of diesel particulate filter and due to the erosion of head gasket, allowing cooling fluid to seep in the cylinders. However, they failed to perform as designed and were removed from the engines. For 1988, the engine was revised to correct the issues and move the particulate filter further away from the engine. In 1990, the same engine was bored out to 3.5 litres as to compensate for reduced performance due to stricter emission regulations. The bored out 3.5-litre version did not have any of aforementioned issues other than some units experiencing the unexplained erosion of head gasket. The 3.5-litre version was available in both standard and long wheelbases (350 SD and 350 SDL).

==Transmissions==

'''First Series (1979–1985)'''

The automatic transmission had four speeds with direct drive in the fourth gear for the entire run from 1979 to 1991. The 280S, 280SE, and 280SEL had 4-speed manual transmission as standard with 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions as extra-cost options.

The manual transmission was not fitted to the V8 engines during the first series. 

U.S. models, including the 300SD Turbodiesel, had automatic transmission as sole transmission choice.

'''Second Series (1985-1991)'''

From 1986 onward, the automatic transmission was revised to include the option of selecting S (Standard) and E (Economy) shifting points. The models, 260SE, 300SE, and 300SEL were fitted with standard 5-speed manual and optional extra-cost 4-speed automatic transmissions. For one year from September 1986 to June 1987, extra cost automatic transmission option wasn't offered for 260SE and 300SE. The customers ordering 420SE could choose either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
U.S. models had automatic transmission as sole transmission choice.



== U.S. Grey Import Market ==
[[File:Mercedes-Benz 500SE.jpg|thumb|Grey-market Mercedes-Benz 500 SE]]

From its introduction in the United States in late 1980, Mercedes-Benz offered Americans only the smaller 3.8-litre version V8, to address the 1975 US federal [[Corporate average fuel economy|Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)]] requirements <ref name="Hagerty">{{cite web|url=http://www.hagerty.com/price-guide/1984-Mercedes~Benz-500SEL|title=1984 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL: History of the 1979-1992 Mercedes-Benz W126|publisher=The Hagerty Group LLC|accessdate=9 September 2020}}</ref> and fuel mileage concerns realated to the  [[1979 oil crisis]].  The smaller ''380'' V8, allowed Mercedes to avoid a CAFE penalty in the United States. This ''[[Malaise era]]'' car was severely underpowered, with 0-60mph acceleration in a leisurely 11 seconds and a modest top speed of {{convert|117|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}. <ref name=HBG/> <ref name=US380SEL/>

American consumers increasingly demanded the more powerful 5.0-litre 500 SE/SEL/SEC models. Their performance was an amazing revelation in comparison, with 0-60mph acceleration in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of {{convert|138|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1982/26345/mercedes-benz_500_sel.html|title=1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL (aut. 4) (model for Europe ) car specifications & performance data review|accessdate=9 September 2020}}</ref> The result was about 22,000 Mercedes-Benz W126 vehicles were imported by individual United States citizens as [[Grey_import_vehicle#United_States|grey market imports]]. <ref name="Hagerty"/> In 1988, the U.S. Congress eliminated this option. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1986-07-11-vw-19912-story.html |last=Dean |first=Paul. |title=Wheeling-Dealing Gray Market Hits the Skids Bad Publicity, Corporate Action, Legislation Put Brakes on Car Conversions. |publisher=The Los Angeles Times |date=11 July 1986 |accessdate=14 November 2019}}</ref>

== Special variants ==
[[File:Mercedes-Benz W126 Sechstürer vr.jpg|thumb|right|Mercedes-Benz W126 six-door stretch limousine]]
* [[Mercedes-AMG|AMG]] offered body kits for all W126 models, as well as a widebody kit for the coupé. AMG also offered many levels of engine tuning, but was most famous for the [[DOHC]] 6.0-litre engine, based on the original 117.968 engine. Also offered was a [[Torsen differential|Gleason Torsen]] differential in varying ratios, [[manual transmission]] (extremely rare), and various TV/radio consoles.
* Trasco Bremen offered a [[stretch limousine]] version called the "1000 SEL".<ref>{{cite web|title=Transco Bremen Stretch Limousine 1000SEL|url=http://www.1000sel.com/index.php/trasco/mercedes-w126-sel-stretch#:~:text=A%20Trasco%201000SEL%2012%20in%20a%20more%20discrete,Trasco%201000SEL12%20Mercedes-Benz%2C%20though%20of%20a%20different%20flavour|publisher=1000SEL.com|accessdate=25 September 2020}}</ref>
* A variety of coachbuilders offered convertibles based on the SEC (coupé) model. Caruna of Switzerland also offered a full four-door convertible based on the SEL (but using the SE's shorter rear doors). One of these still belongs to Dutch Royal Family, who use it at their resort in [[Porto Ercole]], Italy.<ref name=Caruna1>{{cite web | url = http://www.autoblog.nl/archive/2009/06/16/juultje-had-smaak-mercedes-benz-380-sel-caruna | date = 2009-06-16 | title = Juultje had smaak: Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL Caruna |trans-title=Juultje had taste | last = Karssen | first = Wouter | publisher = Autoblog.nl | language = Dutch | accessdate = 2014-08-08 }}</ref>
* Like the current model [[Mercedes Guardian|S-Guard]], specially modified W126 S-Class models were produced for the transport of dignitaries and world leaders. Among the modifications made included a wheelbase stretch, [[bulletproof glass]], and armored body panels.

== Racing ==
Two [[Mercedes-AMG|AMG]]-modified 500 SEC cars raced at the 1989 [[24 Hours of Spa]]. Both cars failed to finish, with one suffering gearbox issues, while the other had issues with the rear axle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.racingsportscars.com/type/archive/Mercedes-Benz/500%20SEC.html?cat=4 |title=Mercedes-Benz 500SEC – Complete Archive |publisher=Racing Sports Cars |date= |accessdate=2011-10-16}}</ref>

== Awards ==
The W126 model 300 SD received the 1981 [[Motor Trend Car of the Year|Motor Trend Import Car of the Year]]. The W126 model 380 SE was the ''[[Wheels Magazine]]'' [[Wheels Car of the Year|Car of the Year]] in 1981,<ref name=wheelsmag/> the W126 was awarded the [[Insurance Institute for Highway Safety|U.S. Highway Loss Data Institute]] "Safest Passenger Car of the Year" in 1988 and 1989,<ref name=W126history/>{{rs|date=June 2020}} and the W126 was the third-ranked luxury vehicle in J.D. Power's 1990 Initial Quality Survey (IQS).<ref>Lexus No. 1 in New-Car Quality Survey, ''[[The Los Angeles Times]]'', Jul 4, 1990 (Versus an average of 140 problems per 100 cars, the S-Class averaged 74.5, behind only the Mercedes E-Class and Lexus LS)</ref> From 1987-1990, Mercedes received the highest customer ratings in the [[J.D. Power and Associates|J.D. Power]] Sales Satisfaction Index.<ref>Sanchez, Jesus. Mercedes Still Ranks No. 1 in Poll of New Car Buyers. ''[[The Los Angeles Times]], August 8, 1990</ref>

== Legacy ==
The W126 series was the highest volume S-Class on record in terms of production. Three armoured 560 SEL ordered by Saddam Hussein had a series of pipes shooting the flames out of sides.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mg.co.za/article/2006-05-21-us-agents-seize-saddam-husseins-car | title = US agents seize 'Saddam Hussein's car' | date = 2006-05-21 | journal = [[Mail & Guardian]] | first = Matt | last = Apuzzo | location = Johannesburg, South Africa | accessdate = 2014-10-30 | publisher = M & G Media }}</ref>

A limited number of W126 continued to be produced in South Africa until 1994, three years after the introduction of W140 S-Class. No figures were given for South African production. Nelson Mandela was given a commemorative model, a red 500 SE. His 500 SE was the last W126 assembled in South Africa and with components donated by Mercedes-Benz South Africa.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jalopnik.com/the-story-of-the-special-mercedes-s-class-made-for-nels-1478020750 |title=The Story Of The Special Mercedes S-Class Made For Nelson Mandela |last=Torchinsky |first=Jason |date=6 December 2013 |work=Jalopnik}}</ref>
==Technical Data==

'''First Series, 1979-1985'''

<div class="NavContent" style="margin:0;">
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:0.85em;"
|-
!Model!!Chassis!!Years!!Configuration!!Displacement!!Fuel Delivery!!Power!!Torque!!Leer Weight (kg)!!0–100&nbsp;km/h (0-62&nbsp;mph)!!Top Speed (km/h)!!Fuel Consumption!!Units
|-
! colspan="13" style="background:#E8E8E8"| ''Petrol Engines''
|-
|280 S
|W126.021
|rowspan="3"|09/1979 – 08/1985
|([[Mercedes-Benz M110 engine|M 110.924]]) Inline 6
|rowspan="3"|2746 cc
|Carburettor
|{{convert|115|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|223|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|1560
|11 seconds
|{{Convert|200|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|15.1|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|42,996
|-
|280 SE
|W126.022
|rowspan="2"|([[Mercedes-Benz M110 engine|M 110.989]]) Inline 6
|rowspan="2"|Fuel Injection
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|136|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on|0}}
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|240|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|1560
|rowspan="2"|10 seconds
|rowspan="2"|{{Convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|15.6|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|133,955
|-
|280 SEL
|W126.023
|1590
|20,655
|-
|rowspan="2"|380 SE
|rowspan="2"|W126.032
|09/1979 – 08/1981
|rowspan="5"|([[Mercedes-Benz M116 engine|M116.963]]) V8
|rowspan="5"|3818 cc
|rowspan="5"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|160|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|223|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|1595
|9.8 seconds
|rowspan="2"|{{Convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="5"|{{convert|17.5|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|58,239
|-
|09/1981 – 08/1985
|{{convert|150|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|223|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|9.6 seconds
|-
|rowspan="2"|380 SEL
|rowspan="2"|W126.033
|09/1979 – 08/1981
|{{convert|160|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|229|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|1625
|9.8 seconds
|{{Convert|215|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|27,014
|-
|09/1981 – 08/1985
|{{convert|150|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|315|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|9.6 seconds
|{{Convert|205|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|380 SEC
|W126.043
|09/1981 – 08/1985
|{{convert|150|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|315|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|1585
|9.6 seconds
|{{Convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|11,267
|-
|rowspan="2"|500 SE
|rowspan="2"|W126.036
|09/1979 – 08/1981
|rowspan="5"|([[Mercedes-Benz M117 engine|M117.963]]) V8
|rowspan="5"|4973 cc
|rowspan="5"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|177|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|402|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|1620
|8.1 seconds
|{{Convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="5"|{{convert|18.5|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|33,418 (1979 – 1991)
|-
|09/1981 – 08/1985
|{{convert|170|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|405|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|8.0 seconds
|{{Convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="2"|500 SEL
|rowspan="2"|W126.037
|09/1979 – 08/1981
|{{convert|177|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|402|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|1650
|8.1 seconds
|{{Convert|215|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|72,733 (1979 – 1991)
|-
|09/1981 – 08/1985
|{{convert|170|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|405|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|8.0 seconds
|{{Convert|205|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|500 SEC
|W126.044
|09/1981 – 08/1985
|{{convert|170|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|405|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|1610
|8.0 seconds
|{{Convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|30,184 (1981 - 1991)
|-
! colspan="13" style="background:#E8E8E8"| ''Diesel Engines (US, Canada, and Japan Only)''
|-
|rowspan="2"|300 SD
|rowspan="2"|W126.120
|09/1979 – 10/1982
|rowspan="2"|([[Mercedes-Benz OM617 engine|OM 617.951]]) Inline 5
|rowspan="2"|2998 cc
|rowspan="2"|Turbocharged<br>Fuel Injection
|{{convert|89|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|250|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|1620
|rowspan="2"|15.2 seconds
|rowspan="2"|{{Convert|175|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|12.4|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|78,725
|-
|10/1982 – 08/1985
|{{convert|92|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|250|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|}

'''Second Series, 1986-1991'''

<div class="NavContent" style="margin:0;">
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:0.85em;"
|-
!Model!!Chassis!!Years!!Configuration!!Displacement!!Fuel Delivery!!Power!!Torque!!Leer Weight (kg)!!0–100&nbsp;km/h (0-62&nbsp;mph)!!Top Speed (km/h)!!Fuel Consumption!!Units
|-
! colspan="13" style="background:#E8E8E8"| ''Petrol Engines (Second Series, 1986 – 1991)''
|-
|rowspan="2"|260 SE
|rowspan="2"|W126.020
|09/1985 – 02/1989
|rowspan="2"|([[Mercedes-Benz M103 engine|M 103.940]]) Inline 6
|rowspan="2"|2599 cc
|rowspan="2"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|166|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|228|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="2"|1570
|10.5 seconds
|{{Convert|205|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="6"|{{convert|10.3-10.7|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|20,836 
|-
|09/1985 – 10/1991
|{{convert|160|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|220|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|11 seconds
|{{Convert|200|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="2"|300 SE
|rowspan="2"|W126.020
|09/1985 – 02/1989
|rowspan="4"|([[Mercedes-Benz M103 engine|M 103.980]]) Inline 6
|rowspan="4"|2960 cc
|rowspan="4"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|140|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|260|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="2"|1570
|9.1 seconds
|{{Convert|205|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|105,422 
|-
|09/1985 – 10/1991
|{{convert|132|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|255|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|9.3 seconds
|{{Convert|200|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="2"|300 SEL
|rowspan="2"|W126.020
|09/1985 – 02/1989
|{{convert|140|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|260|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="2"|1590
|9.1 seconds
|{{Convert|205|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|40,956 
|-
|09/1985 – 10/1991
|{{convert|132|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|255|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|9.3 seconds
|{{Convert|200|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="4"|420 SE
|rowspan="4"|W126.034
|09/1985 – 05/1987
|rowspan="12"|([[Mercedes-Benz M116 engine|M 116.965]]) V8
|rowspan="12"|4196 cc
|rowspan="12"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|160|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="4"|1620
|8.3 seconds
|{{Convert|218|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="12"|{{convert|11.5-11.9|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="4"|13,996 
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|170|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|335|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|8.2 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|150|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|310|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.7 seconds
|{{Convert|218|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|165|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|325|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.5 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="4"|420 SEL
|rowspan="4"|W126.035
|09/1985 – 05/1987
|{{convert|160|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="4"|1650
|8.3 seconds
|{{Convert|218|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="4"|74,017 
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|170|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|335|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|8.2 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|150|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|310|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.7 seconds
|{{Convert|218|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|165|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|325|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.5 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="4"|420 SEC
|rowspan="4"|W126.046
|09/1985 – 05/1987
|{{convert|160|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="4"|1640
|8.3 seconds
|{{Convert|218|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="4"|3,680 
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|170|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|335|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|8.2 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|150|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|310|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.7 seconds
|{{Convert|218|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|165|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|325|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.5 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="4"|500 SE
|rowspan="4"|W126.036
|09/1985 – 05/1987
|rowspan="12"|([[Mercedes-Benz M117 engine|M 117.965]]) V8
|rowspan="12"|4973 cc
|rowspan="12"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|180|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="4"|1620
|7.6 seconds
|{{Convert|230|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="12"|{{convert|12.0-12.5|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="4"|33,418<br>(1979 – 1991) 
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|195|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|405|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|7.3 seconds
|{{Convert|235|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|164|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|365|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.0 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|185|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|390|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.5 seconds
|{{Convert|230|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="4"|500 SEL
|rowspan="4"|W126.037
|09/1985 – 05/1987
|{{convert|180|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="4"|1650
|7.6 seconds
|{{Convert|230|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="4"|72,733<br>(1980 – 1991) 
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|195|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|405|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|7.3 seconds
|{{Convert|235|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|164|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|365|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.0 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|185|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|390|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.5 seconds
|{{Convert|230|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="4"|500 SEC
|rowspan="4"|W126.044
|09/1985 – 05/1987
|{{convert|180|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="4"|1640
|7.6 seconds
|{{Convert|230|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="4"|30,184<br>(1980 – 1991) 
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|195|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|405|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|7.3 seconds
|{{Convert|235|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|164|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|365|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|8.0 seconds
|{{Convert|220|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|185|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|390|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.5 seconds
|{{Convert|230|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="2"|560 SE
|rowspan="2"|W126.038
|09/1988 – 12/1989
|rowspan="12"|([[Mercedes-Benz M117 engine|M 117.968]]) V8
|rowspan="12"|5547 cc
|rowspan="12"|Fuel Injection
|{{convert|220|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|455|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|rowspan="2"|1800
|6.9 seconds
|{{Convert|250|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="12"|{{convert|13.6|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|1,251 
|-
|09/1985 – 10/1991
|{{convert|205|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|430|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT 
|7.2 seconds
|{{Convert|242|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="5"|560 SEL
|rowspan="5"|W126.039
|09/1985 – 08/1986
|{{convert|220|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} ECE
|{{convert|455|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ECE
|rowspan="5"|1830
|6.9 seconds
|{{Convert|250|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="5"|75,071 
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|200|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|430|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|7.3 seconds
|{{Convert|235|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|220|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|455|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|6.9 seconds
|{{Convert|250|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|178|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|390|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.0 seconds
|{{Convert|228|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|205|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|430|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.2 seconds
|{{Convert|242|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|rowspan="5"|560 SEC
|rowspan="5"|W126.045
|09/1985 – 08/1986
|{{convert|220|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} ECE
|{{convert|455|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} ECE
|rowspan="5"|1820
|6.9 seconds
|{{Convert|250|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="5"|28,929 
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|200|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|430|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF 
|7.3 seconds
|{{Convert|238|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|06/1987 – 12/1989
|{{convert|220|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} RÜF
|{{convert|455|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} RÜF
|6.9 seconds
|{{Convert|250|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1985 – 08/1987
|{{convert|178|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|390|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.6 seconds
|{{Convert|228|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|09/1987 – 10/1991
|{{convert|205|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}} CAT
|{{convert|430|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} CAT
|7.2 seconds
|{{Convert|242|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|-
! colspan="13" style="background:#E8E8E8"| ''Diesel Engines (US and Canada Only)''
|-
|300 SDL
|W126.125
|02/1985 – 09/1987
|([[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM 603.961]]) Inline 6
|2996 cc
|Turbocharged<br>Fuel Injection
|{{convert|110|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|273|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|1750
|12.5 seconds
|{{Convert|175|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|12.4|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|13,830
|-
|350 SD
|W126.134
|rowspan="2"|06/1990 – 08/1991
|rowspan="2"|([[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM 603.97x]]) Inline 6
|rowspan="2"|3449 cc
|rowspan="2"|Turbocharged<br>Fuel Injection
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|100|kW|PS bhp|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|310|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}
|1750
|rowspan="2"|13.0 seconds
|rowspan="2"|{{Convert|175|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|rowspan="2"|{{convert|12.4|L/100 km|mpgUS|abbr=on}}
|2,066
|-
|350 SDL
|W126.135
|1750
|2,925
|-
|}

=== Dimensions and weight ===
{|class=wikitable
|-
!Body style
!Wheelbase
!Length
!Width
!Height
!Curb weight
|-
|Sedan (short-wheelbase)||{{convert|2935|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|4995|-|5020|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1820|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1430|-|1437|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1600|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|Sedan (long-wheelbase)||{{convert|3075|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|5135|-|5160|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1820|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1441|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1600|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}
|-
|Coupe||{{convert|2850|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|4910|-|4935|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1828|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1406|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}||{{convert|1610|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}
|-
| colspan="6" style="text-align:center;"|<ref name=W126SE>{{cite web|url=http://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=7414 |title=W126 SE @ carfolio |publisher=Carfolio.com |date=2009-01-22 |accessdate=2011-10-16}}</ref><ref name=W126SEL>{{cite web|url=http://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=7205 |title=W126 SEL @ carfolio |publisher=Carfolio.com |date=2009-01-23 |accessdate=2011-10-16}}</ref><ref name=W126SEC>{{cite web|url=http://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=64526 |title=W126 SEC @ carfolio |publisher=Carfolio.com |date=2008-04-03 |accessdate=2011-10-16}}</ref>
|}

=== Timeline ===
{{Mercedes-Benz W126 timeline}}
{{clear}}

== References ==

=== Notes ===
{{reflist|2}}

=== Bibliography ===

==== General ====
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite book |last=Alder |first=Trevor |title=Mercedes-Benz S-Class Saloons, 1972–91: Road Tests & Articles |series= |year=1996 |publisher=Transport Source Books |location=|asin=B005U5LANQ }}
* {{Barrett-IBG-MB-2}}
* {{cite book |editor-last=Clarke |editor-first=R.M. |title=Mercedes S-Class Limited Edition Extra 1980–91 |series=Road Test Series |year=2001 |publisher=Brooklands Books |location=Cobham, Surrey, UK |isbn=1855205815 }}
* {{Brooklands-AMG1GP}}
* {{Engelen-MBP-3}}
* {{cite book |last1=Greene |first1=Nik |title=Buying and Maintaining a 126 S-class Mercedes |date=2018 |publisher=The Crowood Press |location=Ramsbury, Marlborough, UK |isbn=9781785002441}}
* {{cite book |last1=Greene |first1=Nik |title=Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class 1979-1991 |date=2019 |publisher=The Crowood Press |location=Ramsbury, Marlborough, UK |isbn=9781785005411}}
* {{Häußermann-MBS-1952}}
* {{Häußermann-MBLC-1951}}
* {{cite book |last=Hofner |first=Heribert |title=Die S-Klasse von Mercedes-Benz: von der Kultur des Fahrens |trans-title=The S-Class from Mercedes-Benz: from the culture of driving |year=1997 |publisher=Bechtermünz Verlag |location=Augsburg |isbn=3-86047-589-4 |language=de}}
* {{Hofner-Schrader-MBA-2}}
* {{cite book |last=Howard |first=Geoffrey |title=Mercedes Benz S-Class and the 190 16E |series=High Performance Series |year=1984 |publisher=Cadogan Publications |location=London |isbn=0947754083 }}
* {{Kittler-TMB-2}}
* {{cite book |last=Lange |first=Matthias |title=Die 126er Codes – jetzt entschlüsselt: Die S-Klasse von 1979 bis 1991 |trans-title=The 126er Codes – now uncrypted: The S-Class from 1979 to 1991 |year=2012 |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Interessengemeinschaft |location=Bonn |isbn=9783981509007 |language=de}}
* {{Larimer-MBBG}}
* {{Niemann-PvMB}}
* {{Oswald-MBP-2}}
* {{cite book |editor-last=Pitt |editor-first=Colin |title=Mercedes-Benz W126 W140 W220 |series= |year=2002 |publisher=Unique Motor Books |location=Hockley, Essex, UK |isbn=1841555150 }}
* {{Röcke-GMSK}}
* {{Röcke-NGMSK}}
* {{Schlegelmilch-M-2013}}
* {{cite book |last=Storz |first=Alexander Franc |title=Mercedes-Benz S-Klasse: Baureihe W 126 1979–1991 |series=Schrader-Typen-Chronik series |year=2013 |publisher=Motorbuch Verlag |location=Stuttgart |isbn=9783613035812 |language=de}}
* {{Taylor-MB since 1945-4|pages=8–40, 109, 112 }}
* {{Taylor-MB 1990s|pages=9–16, 32–35 }}
* {{Taylor-MB S-Class}}
* {{Vieweg-AMBS}}
* {{cite book |last1=Zoporowski |first1=Tobias |last2=Parish |first2=Julian |title=Mercedes-Benz S-Class: W126-series 1979 to 1991 |series=Essential Buyer's Guide Veloce series |year=2019 |publisher=Veloce Publishing |location=Dorchester, Dorset, UK |isbn=9781787114029}}
{{refend}}

==== Workshop manuals ====
{{refbegin}}
* {{Chilton-MCSW 1974-84}}
* {{cite book |title=Mercedes S-Klasse 280 S / 280 SE / 380 S / 500 SE |edition= |series=Reparaturanleitung series, Band 662. |year=2002 |publisher=Verlag Bucheli |location=Zug, Switzerland |isbn=9783716815854 |language=de}}
* {{cite book |title=Mercedes S-Klasse Serie W126 ab September 79 |edition= |series=Reparaturanleitung series, Band 929/930. |year=2012 |publisher=Verlag Bucheli |location=Zug, Switzerland |isbn=9783716817582 |language=de}}
* {{Bentley-MB Technical}}
{{refend}}

== External links ==
{{commons category|Mercedes-Benz W126}}
{{commons category|Mercedes-Benz C126}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/19990302052806/http://home.concepts.nl/%7Evlimmere/index2.HTM The unofficial W126 page] – history and details of the W126
* [http://www.fuenfkommasechs.de Fuenfkommasechs.de] – German website with vast information on development, model history, engines and innovations
* [https://mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com/marsClassic/en/instance/ko/126-series-S-Class-Saloons-1985---1992.xhtml?oid=4979&relId=1001 Production information, technical data, and media of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Digital Archive]

{{Mercedes-Benz vehicles}}
{{Mercedes-Benz CL-class lineage}}
{{Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineage}}

[[Category:Mercedes-Benz model codes|W126]]
[[Category:Cars introduced in 1979]]
[[Category:1980s cars]]
[[Category:1990s cars]]
[[Category:Full-size vehicles]]
[[Category:Grand tourers]]
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
[[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Sedans]]
[[Category:Limousines]]
[[Category:Mercedes-Benz vehicles|W126]]