Join Our Mailing List

We are currently auctioning a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL – No Reserve! – with loads of pictures and videos – click here to see and bid on it.

The Initial Mercedes-Benz S Class, “Pre-S”

Some of the original S class cars didn’t have show an S in the early days. Those cars include the W180, W128, W111 and the W108.  The first special Benz was the W180, these models ran from 1951 – 1954, the first of the S- class were referred to as the Ponton models. The straight-6 M180 engine in the cars was regarded as cutting-edge at the time. Additionally, it led to the development of the conical-pin safety door lock, which turned out to be considerably more efficient than the conventional period door lock. Then next up was the W128, which ran from 1954 – 1959. The W128 was known for its classic style, alongside a new advancement for the car manufacturer known as turbo-cooling. This industry revolutionizing advancement allowed for a reduced engine charge time by including brake drums that allowed air temperatures low. Then from 1959-1965 came the W111 – these special Benzes were focused on safety, the interior was a lot more driver-friendly, with padded steering, air suspension, and central locking doors. The next special Benz was the W108 which ran 1965 – 1972 – W108 models progressed at the rear axle, with hydropneumatics compensating springs. In addition to a V8 engine that gave it a ferocious 247 horsepower (which in 1965, was far greater than the typical period car).

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126

The Official Classics of The Mercedes-Benz S Class

The first official S class Mercedes -Benz was the W116 model, which ran from 1972 – 1980. This new special Benz came with a four-wheel independent suspension and disc brakes. Other improvements were ABS, cruise control, and a protective fuel tank on top of the rear axle. The next S class Mercedes Benz was the W126 which ran from the 1979 – 1991.  This model focused on safety and was the first model with standard front passenger air bags, and seat belt tensioner. Next up was the W140 body, which ran from 1991- 1998. These S class Benz’s came in sedan and coupe body styles, with the optional first 12-cylinder engine – making it the most powerful car in its class. It also had many standards of life improvement features such as power closing doors and trunk, electric stability control and an optional navigation-based auto-pilot system that was like cruise control.

​

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220

The Modern Style S Class

The W220 is considered by many to be the first modern styled S class, it ran from 1998 – 2005. These cars were industry revolutionary as they had automatic cylinder shut off which helped with engine efficiency and Keyless go starts. After that Mercedes Benz released the W221, which ran from 2005 – 2013. These models focused on technological advancements, such autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, hybrid options, and active night view assist. Next up was the W222 which ran from 2013 – 2020. These models focused on improving the car’s mechanics, the most notable achievement was switching to hybrid body shell that were made from aluminum which is 50% higher rigidity compared to older models. At the same time, M-B switched from traditional lights to LED bulbs. Shortly after that, we saw the W223, the current models. These cars are focused on optimizing technology, these new technological features include more screens and ambient lights, giving the driver more control over his/her driving experience. In addition, they are the first cars to have rear seat airbags.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222

The rest is unfolding as we write this – do you think Mercedes Benz S Class is heading in the right direction?

We currently have a classic Mercedes Benz S class on auction. Click here to view and bid on it!

Let us know with a comment below.  Remember the Comment of the Week wins a CCC ball cap.*