W187 (1951-1954): The Very First S-Class
In the aftermath of World War II, Germany lay in ruins. Mercedes-Benz, with 80% of its factories destroyed, had primarily produced bicycles and trucks during the conflict. The brand, known pre-war for high-end models like the W142 or Typ Grosser (until 1943), launched the W187 220 in 1951. This model is the first that can be considered the Sonderklasse (the upper class) of Mercedes, even if it did not take the designation at the time. The models designed before the war not corresponding, in their design or their commercial positioning, to this new category.
This sedan symbolized the country’s industrial rebirth and the return of German luxury, marking the first generation of what would become the Sonderklasse (S-Class, or « superior class »). Under the direction of Karl Wilfert, postwar design chief, the W187 featured classic yet modernized lines. Inspired by pre-war models and measuring 4.51 m, it integrated headlights into the fenders and a smoother grille, a robust design that stood out from the era’s standards. Its development, in a context of limited resources, cost around 5 million marks—a modest sum to rebuild the Sindelfingen factories and design a new engine. This 2.2-liter inline-six (M180) produced 80 hp at 4,600 rpm, achieving a top speed of 140 km/h and 0-100 km/h in about 20 seconds—respectable performance for the time, though modest by future standards. An improved M180 version, boosted to 85 hp, was offered from 1952 for coupes and convertibles, providing slightly more dynamic driving.
The W187 introduced notable innovations: an overhead camshaft (SOHC) for better efficiency, independent front suspension with coil springs, and a reinforced structure laying the groundwork for Mercedes safety, with rudimentary crumple zones. It came with a 4-speed manual gearbox, with an overdrive option to reduce fuel consumption, estimated at 11 L/100 km. In terms of equipment, the W187 offered luxurious finishes for the era: leather upholstery, burl wood inserts, and a forced-air heater—a rare luxury in the 1950s.
Compared to rivals like the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn (4.6 L, 130 hp, 150 km/h) or Jaguar Mark VII (3.5 L, 160 hp, 160 km/h), the W187 stood out for its German reliability and a more affordable price of around 11,000 marks (about €30,000 today, adjusted). Approximately 18,000 units were produced between 1951 and 1955, including 16,154 sedans, 1,278 coupes, and 557 convertibles—a modest but encouraging success for a brand in recovery.
W180 « Ponton » (1954-1959): Pragmatic Modernity
In the 1950s, Germany’s economy rebounded, thanks in part to the Marshall Plan, and Mercedes-Benz sought to modernize its image to meet growing demand for comfort and style. The W180, nicknamed « Ponton » for its rounded fenders resembling a boat’s hull, was launched in 1954 under Friedrich Geiger, the designer famed for the 300 SL « Gullwing. » Ahead of its time, this Sonderklasse generation boasted design and performance approaching 21st-century standards.
With its sleek 4.67 m silhouette, integrated lines, and monocoque body—a first for a Mercedes sedan—the W180 marked an aesthetic and structural turning point, abandoning the separate chassis of earlier models. This shift to a modern chassis required an estimated investment of 10 to 15 million marks, reflecting the brand’s ambition at the dawn of a new era, particularly to upgrade production lines in Sindelfingen.
Under the hood, the W180 started with a 2.2-liter inline-six (M180 II) producing 85 hp at 4,800 rpm, with a top speed of 150 km/h and 0-100 km/h in 17 seconds. In 1956, a 220 S version boosted to 100 hp (later 106 hp with twin carburetors) was introduced, followed by the 220 SE in 1958 with Bosch direct injection—a first for a Mercedes sedan—pushing power to 115 hp at 5,000 rpm, with a top speed of 160 km/h and 0-100 km/h in 14 seconds. Average fuel consumption was 12 L/100 km, reasonable for the time. The W180 also featured independent front and rear suspension (swing axle), ball-recirculating steering for better handling, and enhanced rigidity from the monocoque, improving comfort and roadholding.
In terms of equipment, the W180 stood out with luxury: leather or high-quality fabric upholstery, precious wood dashboard, optional tinted windows, and an advanced heating-ventilation system. A notable option was the Hydrak automatic transmission (from 1957), a rare hydraulic semi-automatic clutch for the era, appealing to drivers seeking comfort.
Against rivals like the BMW 501 « Baroque Angel » (6-cylinder, 2.0 L, 100 hp, 135 km/h) or Citroën DS (4-cylinder, 1.9 L, 75 hp, 140 km/h, revolutionary with hydropneumatic suspension), the W180 distinguished itself with reliability, prestige, and a competitive price of about 12,500 marks (around €35,000 today, adjusted). Around 85,000 units were produced between 1954 and 1959, including 55,902 220 S sedans, 3,429 220 S coupes/convertibles, and 2,178 220 SE injection sedans.
W111 « Fintail » (1959-1965): Secure Elegance
Launched in 1959 amid a global economic boom, the W111 « Fintail » stood out with its bold design featuring rear fins inspired by American Cadillacs, blending European elegance with major safety advancements, under the direction of Paul Bracq and Friedrich Geiger, targeting an expanding international market.
With a standard length of 4.87 m, the W111 relied on a sturdy monocoque body and offered a range of six-cylinder engines, from a 1.9-liter (95 hp at 5,200 rpm, top speed 155 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 15 seconds) to a 3.0-liter in the 300 SE (170 hp at 5,400 rpm, 185 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 12 seconds). Fuel consumption ranged from 11 to 14 L/100 km, with a 65-liter tank providing an average range of 500 km. Weight varied between 1,350 and 1,550 kg, and transmission options included a 4-speed manual or optional automatic, with development costs of 20 to 30 million marks to integrate safety and style.
The W111 introduced revolutionary innovations: crumple zones designed by Béla Barényi to absorb impacts, front disc brakes from 1961 (rear optional on the 300 SE) for enhanced braking power, and optional air suspension on the 300 SE, offering exceptional stability on rough roads. The front suspension featured double wishbones with coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear used a swing axle with compensating springs. Ball-recirculating steering was precise, and the reinforced structure improved torsional rigidity. Interior features included premium leather or fabric upholstery, a precious wood dashboard (walnut or rosewood), dual-zone heating-ventilation, optional power windows from 1963, and a manual sunroof available on sedans.
Against competitors like the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II (6.2 L, 180 hp, 180 km/h, 18 L/100 km) or Jaguar Mark X (3.8 L, 220 hp, 190 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 10 seconds), the W111 excelled with safety and a starting price of about 18,000 marks (around €50,000 today, adjusted). Around 330,000 units were produced, combined with the W112, including 111,000 220/220 S/220 SE sedans, 14,173 220 SE coupes/convertibles, and 6,548 300 SE units. No specific long version was offered, but the generous interior space, with a 2.75 m wheelbase, met the expectations of a luxury sedan of the era.
W112 « Fintail » (1959-1965): Pick of Luxury
Introduced in 1959 alongside the W111, the W112 targeted an elite clientele seeking superior luxury in a booming market, building on its sibling’s technical base but with significantly refined finishes and optimized design under Paul Bracq, aiming to compete with British flagships.
At 4.87 m long, the W112 used the W111’s six-cylinder engines, peaking with the 3.0-liter 300 SE (170 hp at 5,400 rpm), offering a top speed of 185 km/h and 0-100 km/h in 12 seconds, with average fuel consumption of 13 L/100 km and a 65-liter tank for a range of about 500 km. Weighing 1,650 kg due to added equipment, it offered a 4-speed manual or automatic transmission, with an additional development cost of 5 to 10 million marks over the W111 to enhance its exclusivity and sophistication.
Air suspension became standard, ensuring exceptional handling and comfort, with double-wishbone front suspension and a swing-axle rear, both fitted with adjustable air springs. Front and rear disc brakes (standard on the 300 SE) provided superior stopping power, and the monocoque structure incorporated Barényi’s crumple zones for enhanced safety. Power-assisted ball-recirculating steering improved maneuverability despite the weight. Interior finishes stood out with abundant chrome on the grille and window surrounds, full-grain leather upholstery in five colors (black, beige, red, blue, gray), solid wood inserts (rosewood or ebony), thermostatically controlled heating, and standard power windows from 1961.
Compared to the Bentley S2 (6.2 L, 200 hp, 180 km/h, 20 L/100 km) or Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II (6.2 L, 180 hp, 180 km/h), the W112 offered a more accessible technological alternative at around 22,000 marks (about €60,000 today, adjusted). Only 7,000 units were produced, including 5,202 300 SE sedans and 1,839 coupes/convertibles, underscoring its exclusivity. No « L » version was available, but the 2.75 m wheelbase and premium materials provided a spacious, refined interior ideal for discerning clients.
W108 (1965-1972): Sobriety and Performance
Launched in 1965 to succeed the W111, the W108 adopted modern, rectilinear lines under Paul Bracq, meeting growing demand for understated yet high-performing sedans in a 1960s market marked by intense competition among European manufacturers to blend elegance and power.
At 4.90 m long, the W108 offered a wide engine range, from a 2.5-liter six-cylinder (130 hp at 5,400 rpm, top speed 170 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 13 seconds) to a 6.3-liter V8 in the 300 SEL 6.3 (250 hp at 4,000 rpm, 205 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds). Fuel consumption ranged from 12 to 16 L/100 km, with an 82-liter tank providing a 500-600 km range. Weight varied from 1,500 to 1,750 kg, and transmission options included a 4-speed manual or automatic, with development costs of 25 to 35 million marks to integrate the brand’s first V8 into a sedan.
Air suspension was standard on the 300 SEL, with double-wishbone front suspension and a stabilizer bar, and a swing-axle rear with coil springs, balancing comfort and dynamism. A telescopic steering column enhanced passive safety, and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with dual-circuit hydraulics from 1968, ensured exceptional stopping power. Optional hydraulic power steering was available. Interior features included luxury leather or fabric upholstery (in eight colors), a padded dashboard with wood inserts (walnut or zebrano), optional power windows from 1967, manual air conditioning from 1968, and an optional electric sunroof on top models.
Against the BMW 3.0S (3.0 L, 180 hp, 185 km/h, 14 L/100 km) or Jaguar XJ6 (4.2 L, 245 hp, 190 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds), the W108 stood out for power and refinement, with a starting price of 20,000 marks (about €55,000 today, adjusted). Around 383,000 units were produced with the W109, including 252,000 250 S/280 S/280 SE sedans and 6,700 300 SEL 6.3 units. No explicit long version was offered, but the 300 SEL’s slightly longer wheelbase (2.85 m vs. 2.75 m) optimized rear comfort.
W109 (1965-1972): Pinnacle of Comfort
Unveiled in 1965 alongside the W108, the W109 targeted affluent clients seeking ultimate comfort in a growing luxury market, with lavish finishes and optimized design under Paul Bracq, aiming to set a new standard for premium sedans.
At 5.00 m long with an extended 2.85 m wheelbase, the W109 shared the W108’s engines, from a 3.0-liter six-cylinder (170 hp at 5,400 rpm, top speed 185 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds) to a 6.3-liter V8 (250 hp at 4,000 rpm, 205 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds). Fuel consumption reached 16 L/100 km on the V8, with an 82-liter tank for a 500 km range. Weighing 1,850 kg due to luxurious equipment, it featured a standard 4-speed automatic, with an additional development cost of 5-10 million marks for this premium version.
Air suspension was standard across all models, with double-wishbone front and swing-axle rear suspension, both with adjustable air springs for exceptional ride smoothness over long distances. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels with dual-circuit hydraulics and a telescopic steering column bolstered safety, while hydraulic power steering improved handling. Interiors offered full-grain leather upholstery (in nine colors), solid wood inserts (walnut, zebrano, or ebony), optional reclining rear seats from 1967, manual air conditioning from 1969, and a standard electric sunroof on V8 models, plus thick wool carpets and rear footrests.
Compared to the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow (6.2 L, 200 hp, 185 km/h, 20 L/100 km), the W109 offered a more accessible technological alternative at around 25,000 marks (about €70,000 today, adjusted). Around 27,000 units were produced, including 9,500 300 SEL sedans and 2,800 V8 6.3 units. Its increased length made it an implicit « L » version, with generous rear space and optimized comfort for long trips, rivaling the era’s limousines.
W116 (1972-1980): The First Official S-Class
Launched in 1972, the W116 formalized the S-Class name with a square, robust silhouette by Friedrich Geiger, aiming to establish Mercedes as the undisputed luxury car leader against rising competition from BMW and Audi in a 1970s market prioritizing safety.
At 4.96 m long (5.06 m for the SEL with a 2.86 m wheelbase), the W116 offered a varied engine lineup: a 2.8-liter six-cylinder (160 hp at 5,500 rpm, top speed 190 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 11 seconds), a 6.9-liter V8 (286 hp at 4,250 rpm, 225 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds), and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel (125 hp at 4,000 rpm, 165 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 15 seconds) from 1978 for the U.S. market. Fuel consumption ranged from 12 to 18 L/100 km, with a 96-liter tank providing a 500-700 km range. Weight varied from 1,700 to 1,950 kg, and it featured a 4-speed automatic, with development costs of 50-60 million marks focused on safety and durability.
ABS debuted in 1978 as a world first on a production car, with double-wishbone front suspension and a stabilizer bar, and trailing-arm rear suspension with coil springs, available with hydropneumatic suspension on V8 models for added comfort. A reinforced survival cell with side beams, a secure tank above the axle, and ventilated disc brakes with dual-circuit hydraulics ensured top safety. Hydraulic power steering was precise, and the structure offered 20% better torsional rigidity than the W108. Features included luxury leather or velour upholstery (in seven colors), precious wood inserts (walnut or zebrano), optional automatic air conditioning from 1975, standard power windows on SEL models, optional heated seats from 1977, and a mechanical cruise control.
Against the BMW 7 Series E23 (3.5 L, 217 hp, 205 km/h, 14 L/100 km) or Jaguar XJ (4.2 L, 245 hp, 190 km/h), the W116 dominated with safety advancements and prestige, starting at 30,000 marks (about €80,000 today, adjusted). Around 473,000 units were produced, including 300,000 standard sedans and 150,000 SEL models. The long SEL version, with a 10 cm longer wheelbase, offered spacious rear comfort for extended trips, meeting the needs of diplomats and industrialists.
W126 (1979-1991): Ultraclassic Apex
Launched in 1979 in an era of ostentatious luxury, the W126, designed by Bruno Sacco, embodied the peak of classic design with a 0.36 drag coefficient, marking a turning point for Mercedes-Benz by combining timeless elegance, energy efficiency, and major safety innovations to dominate the 1980s.
At 4.99 m long (5.14 m for the SEL with a 2.93 m wheelbase), the W126 offered a broad engine range: a 2.6-liter six-cylinder (160 hp at 5,800 rpm, top speed 200 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 10 seconds), a 5.6-liter V8 (296 hp at 4,500 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds), and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel (150 hp at 4,350 rpm, 175 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 13 seconds) from 1985. Fuel consumption ranged from 11 to 17 L/100 km, with a 90-liter tank for a 500-700 km range. Weight varied from 1,650 to 1,900 kg, and it featured a 4-speed automatic with Bosch KE-Jetronic electronic injection, with development costs of 70-80 million marks.
The driver’s airbag debuted in 1981 as a European first, followed by seatbelt pretensioners in 1981 and traction control (ASD) in 1985 for V8 models. Double-wishbone front and trailing-arm rear suspension, available with hydropneumatic suspension on SEL models, offered remarkable high-speed stability. Ventilated disc brakes with ABS (standard from 1986) and height-adjustable hydraulic power steering improved safety and handling. The body used high-strength steels, reducing weight while increasing rigidity by 25% over the W116. Features included premium leather upholstery (in 10 colors), precious wood inserts (walnut, zebrano, or rosewood), standard automatic air conditioning from 1983, optional memory power seats from 1984, tinted windows, an electric sunroof, and an optional Becker audio system with 8 speakers.
Against the BMW 7 Series E32 (3.5 L, 220 hp, 230 km/h, 12 L/100 km) or Audi V8 (3.6 L, 250 hp, 235 km/h), the W126 excelled in reliability and prestige, starting at 35,000 marks (about €90,000 today, adjusted). Around 818,000 units were produced, including 600,000 standard sedans and 200,000 SEL models, making it the best-selling S-Class to date. The long SEL version, with a 14 cm longer wheelbase, offered luxurious rear space with adjustable footrests and optional window curtains, meeting the needs of upscale clients prioritizing long-trip comfort.
W140 (1991-1998): Technological Titan
Launched in 1991 under Bruno Sacco, the W140, nicknamed « the cathedral » in Germany for its imposing size, ushered Mercedes-Benz into an era of technological gigantism, responding to a 1990s innovation race with unprecedented safety advancements and luxury.
At 5.11 m long (5.21 m for the SEL with a 3.04 m wheelbase), the W140 offered a varied engine lineup: a 3.2-liter six-cylinder diesel (150 hp at 4,600 rpm, top speed 185 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 12 seconds), a 5.0-liter V8 (326 hp at 5,700 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds), and a 6.0-liter V12 (408 hp at 5,200 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 6 seconds). Fuel consumption ranged from 10 to 18 L/100 km, with a 100-liter tank for a 550-800 km range. Weight varied from 1,900 to 2,200 kg, and it featured a 5-speed automatic with electronic management, with development costs of about 1.5 billion marks—a record reflecting its technological ambition.
ESP debuted in 1995 as a world first on a sedan, with emergency braking (BAS), adaptive hydropneumatic suspension with height adjustment, and optimized ABS ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. Double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension offered exceptional stability, while speed-sensitive hydraulic power steering adjusted firmness. The body featured a reinforced survival cell with 30% ultra-high-strength steel, and double-glazed windows reduced noise by 10 dB compared to the W126. Features included full-grain leather upholstery (in 12 colors), solid wood inserts (walnut, maple, or zebrano), dual-zone automatic air conditioning with activated charcoal filters, optional memory power seats with ventilation/heating from 1994, a panoramic electric sunroof, a Bose audio system with 12 speakers, and an optional integrated phone from 1992.
Against the Lexus LS400 (4.0 L, 250 hp, 240 km/h, 12 L/100 km) or BMW 7 Series E38 (4.4 L, 286 hp, 250 km/h), the W140 dominated with technological advancements and luxury, starting at 80,000 marks (about €120,000 today, adjusted). Around 432,000 units were produced, including 300,000 standard sedans and 100,000 SEL models. The long SEL version, with a 10 cm longer wheelbase, offered lavish rear space with reclining seats, fold-down trays, and electric curtains, catering to clients seeking a high-tech, comfortable limousine.
W220 (1998-2005): Turn to the 21st century
Launched in 1998 under Steve Mattin, the W220 marked a shift to modern design with sleek lines and a lighter approach after the W140’s monumentality, meeting growing demand for luxurious yet dynamic sedans in a 2000s market focused on efficiency and technology.
At 5.03 m long (5.16 m for the SEL with a 3.08 m wheelbase), the W220 offered a broad engine range: a 3.2-liter six-cylinder (224 hp at 5,600 rpm, top speed 240 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds), a 5.0-liter V8 (306 hp at 5,600 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds), and a 5.8-liter supercharged V12 (493 hp at 5,000 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 5 seconds). Fuel consumption ranged from 10 to 17 L/100 km, with an 88-liter tank for a 500-800 km range. Weight varied from 1,800 to 2,100 kg, and it featured a 5-speed automatic with cylinder deactivation on V8s and V12s to cut consumption, with development costs of about $800 million.
The radar-based Distronic cruise control (the world’s first adaptive system), Airmatic active suspension with height adjustment, and eight airbags (front, side, curtain) redefined safety and driving. Double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension with electronically controlled adaptive dampers balanced comfort and dynamism, while ventilated disc brakes with ABS and BAS, featuring four-piston calipers on V12 models, ensured optimal stopping power. The body used 40% aluminum, cutting 300 kg from the W140, with a 0.29 drag coefficient improving aerodynamics. Features included semi-aniline leather upholstery (in 10 colors), precious wood inserts (walnut, maple, or brushed aluminum), dual-zone automatic air conditioning with solar sensors, optional memory power seats with ventilation/heating from 2002, a panoramic electric sunroof, a Comand multimedia system with a 6.5-inch screen and GPS, a Harman Kardon audio system with 10 speakers, and optional Keyless-Go from 2003.
Against the BMW 7 Series E65 (4.4 L, 333 hp, 250 km/h, 11 L/100 km) or Audi A8 (4.2 L, 310 hp, 250 km/h), the W220 shone with modernity and reliability, starting at €60,000. Around 485,000 units were produced, including 350,000 standard sedans and 120,000 SEL models. The long SEL version, with a 13 cm longer wheelbase, offered luxurious rear space with power-reclining seats, electric curtains, rear trays, and optional entertainment screens in headrests from 2004, meeting the needs of clients seeking a sophisticated, comfortable sedan for long trips.
W221 (2005-2013): Futuristic Luxury
Launched in 2005 under Gorden Wagener, the W221 blended luxury and technology with an imposing, futuristic design, meeting 2000s market demands where comfort, performance, and high-tech innovations became essential, while introducing early hybrid advancements.
At 5.07 m long (5.21 m for the SEL with a 3.16 m wheelbase), the W221 offered a diverse engine lineup: a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel (235 hp at 3,600 rpm, top speed 240 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds), a 5.5-liter V8 (388 hp at 6,000 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds), a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 (621 hp at 4,800 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds), and an S400 hybrid (299 hp combined, 240 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds) from 2009. Fuel consumption ranged from 9 to 15 L/100 km (7.9 L/100 km for the hybrid), with a 90-liter tank for a 600-900 km range. Weight varied from 1,900 to 2,300 kg, and it featured a 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic with manual mode, with development costs of about €1 billion.
Infrared night vision with a dedicated screen, Pre-Safe collision anticipation (adjusting seats and belts), and Distronic Plus active cruise control with stop-and-go functionality set new safety benchmarks. Adaptive Airmatic suspension with three modes (comfort, sport, manual) used double-wishbone front and five-link rear architecture with electronically controlled dampers for optimal handling. Ventilated disc brakes with ABS, BAS, and optional ceramic discs on AMG models, with six-piston calipers on the V12, ensured exceptional responsiveness. The body used 50% aluminum with a 0.26 drag coefficient, boosting efficiency. Features included semi-aniline leather upholstery (in 12 colors), precious wood or carbon inserts (walnut, poplar, piano lacquer), quad-zone air conditioning with air quality sensors, massaging seats with ventilation/heating and 14 adjustable air cushions, a panoramic electric sunroof, an 8-inch Comand multimedia system with 3D navigation, a Harman Kardon audio system with 14 speakers, customizable LED ambient lighting in seven colors from 2008, and standard Keyless-Go on top models.
Against the BMW 7 Series F01 (4.4 L, 407 hp, 250 km/h, 11 L/100 km) or Lexus LS (4.6 L, 380 hp, 250 km/h), the W221 dominated with advanced tech and luxury, starting at €70,000. Around 516,000 units were produced, including 400,000 standard sedans and 100,000 SEL models. The long SEL version, with a 14 cm longer wheelbase, offered lavish rear space with power-reclining seats, retractable trays, 8-inch entertainment screens in headrests, electric curtains, and a six-program massage system, catering to clients seeking a futuristic, comfortable sedan for long-distance travel.
W222 (2013-2020): Towards Autonomy
Launched in 2013 under Robert Lešnik, the W222 embodied the shift to autonomous driving with sculpted design, full LED headlights, and a high-tech look, responding to the 2010s rise of autonomous and connected tech while integrating plug-in hybrid engines to meet environmental standards.
At 5.11 m long (5.25 m for the SEL with a 3.16 m wheelbase), the W222 offered a full engine range: a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel (258 hp at 3,600 rpm, top speed 245 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 6.8 seconds), a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 (455 hp at 5,250 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds), a 6.0-liter V12 (630 hp at 4,800 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds), and an S500e plug-in hybrid (442 hp combined, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, 33 km electric range). Fuel consumption ranged from 8 to 14 L/100 km (5.5 L/100 km for the hybrid), with an 80-liter tank (plus 8 liters for the hybrid) for a 600-1,000 km range. Weight varied from 1,950 to 2,350 kg, and it featured a 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic with manual mode, with development costs over €1.2 billion.
Level 2 semi-autonomous driving with lane-keeping assist and adaptive Distronic Plus, intelligent LED headlights with 84 diodes and adaptive control, and pedestrian detection with automatic braking pushed technological boundaries. Airmatic suspension with active control and four modes (comfort, sport, curve, individual) used double-wishbone front and five-link rear architecture with piloted air dampers and automatic leveling. Ventilated disc brakes with ABS, BAS, and optional ceramic discs on AMG models, with eight-piston calipers on the V12, offered exceptional power. The body used 60% aluminum with a 0.24 drag coefficient, improving efficiency by 15% over the W221. Features included perforated Nappa leather upholstery (in 15 colors), precious wood, metal, or carbon inserts (walnut, ash, brushed aluminum), quad-zone air conditioning with an ionizer, massaging seats with ventilation/heating and 19 air cushions, a panoramic electric sunroof with Magic Sky (adjustable opacity), dual 12.3-inch OLED screens for dashboard and infotainment with 3D navigation, a Burmester audio system with 24 speakers and 1,540 watts, 64-color ambient lighting, an optional heads-up display from 2015, and an integrated fragrance system.
Against the Tesla Model S (670 hp, 322 km/h, 600 km electric range) or BMW 7 Series G11 (4.4 L, 450 hp, 250 km/h, 10 L/100 km), the W222 excelled in refinement and tech, starting at €85,000. Over 500,000 units were produced, including 350,000 standard sedans and 150,000 SEL models. The long SEL version, with a 14 cm longer wheelbase, offered luxurious rear space with power-reclining seats with memory, retractable trays with wireless chargers, 10-inch entertainment screens in headrests, voice-controlled electric curtains, an eight-program massage system with heat, and an optional mini-fridge, meeting the needs of clients seeking an autonomous, sophisticated sedan for long trips.
W223 (2020-Present): Rolling Future
Launched in 2020 under Gorden Wagener, the W223 redefined automotive luxury with sleek lines, a digitized interior, and cutting-edge autonomous tech, addressing post-pandemic challenges where sustainable mobility, connectivity, and absolute safety became critical, integrating advanced hybrids and revolutionary autonomous systems.
At 5.18 m long (5.29 m for the SEL with a 3.21 m wheelbase), the W223 offered a sophisticated engine lineup: a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel (286 hp at 3,600 rpm, top speed 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds), a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 (503 hp at 5,500 rpm, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds), and an S580e plug-in hybrid (510 hp combined, 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 5 seconds, 100 km electric range). Fuel consumption ranged from 7 to 13 L/100 km (2.5 L/100 km for the hybrid in mixed mode), with a 76-liter tank (plus 22 kWh battery for the hybrid) for an 800-1,200 km total range. Weight varied from 2,000 to 2,400 kg, and it featured a 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic with 48V mild hybrid tech on thermal engines, with development costs of about €1.5 billion.
Level 3 autonomy (hands-off driving in certain conditions), 10° rear-axle steering reducing the turning radius to 11 m, and rear airbags (a world first) redefined safety and maneuverability. Airmatic suspension with active control and five modes (comfort, sport, curve, eco, individual) used double-wishbone front and five-link rear architecture with adaptive air dampers and real-time leveling. Ventilated disc brakes with ABS, BAS, and optional ceramic discs on AMG models, with eight-piston calipers on the V8, offered exceptional power. The body used 65% aluminum with a 0.22 drag coefficient (a sedan record), improving efficiency by 20% over the W222. Features included perforated Nappa leather upholstery (in 18 colors), precious wood, metal, or carbon inserts (walnut, ash, brushed aluminum), five-zone air conditioning with an ionizer and HEPA filters, massaging seats with ventilation/heating and 19 air cushions with 10 programs, a panoramic electric sunroof with Magic Sky, a 12.8-inch OLED MBUX screen with advanced voice control, dual 11.6-inch rear entertainment screens, a 12.3-inch 3D digital dashboard, an augmented-reality heads-up display, a Burmester 4D audio system with 31 speakers and 1,750 watts, 263-LED 64-color ambient lighting, an active fragrance system with eight scents, and an enhanced 360° camera with night vision.
Against the Tesla Model S Plaid (1,020 hp, 322 km/h, 628 km electric range) and BMW i7 (544 hp, 240 km/h, 600 km electric range), the W223—not yet fully electric—responded with luxury and innovation, starting at €95,000. Over 200,000 units were produced by March 2025, including 140,000 standard sedans and 60,000 SEL models, with continued growth. The long SEL version, with an 11 cm longer wheelbase, offered lavish rear space with power-reclining seats with memory, retractable touch trays with wireless chargers, 11.6-inch streaming-enabled entertainment screens, gesture-controlled electric curtains, a 12-program massage system with hot stones, a 10-liter mini-fridge, and active noise cancellation, meeting the needs of clients seeking an autonomous, sustainable, ultra-luxurious sedan for professional or personal travel.
A Monumental Legacy
From the W187 to the W223, the S-Class has sold over 4 million units since 1972, introducing major innovations and dominating automotive luxury in 2025.