S-Class Model series 126 (1979 to 1991)

The transfer of technology from the S-Class to other Mercedes-Benz model series and to competitor vehicles before becoming the generally accepted technology standard continued in the years that followed, turning the S-Class into a genuine trendsetter. The airbag, now a key component of automotive safety, made its debut in 1981, in the model series 126 which had been launched two years earlier. Other features from this S-Class generation included the aerodynamically-enhanced shape and systematic weight reduction through the use of elements such as the new light-alloy V8 engines. The model series 126 also set the trend in terms of its design: it was the first Mercedes-Benz passenger car to do away with the traditional chrome bumpers in favour of deformable plastic ones built to withstand a 'parking dent'. Initially felt by some observers to be plain and tasteless, the design of the model series 126 soon came to be regarded as timeless and elegant.

• Mercedes-Benz S-Class 126 model (1979 to 1991)
• Bodyshell with forked longitudinal member, first series production vehicle worldwide to meet the offset crash requirements
• Lower drag coefficient of cd = 0.37
• New V8 engines with light-alloy block
• Closed-loop catalytic converter as special equipment (from 1985) or standard fitment (from 1986)
• Electrically adjustable steering column as special equipment (from 1985)
• Driver airbag and belt tensioner for front passenger as special equipment (from 1981)
• Passenger-side air bag (from 1988)
• Automatic locking differential as special equipment for the six-cylinder models (from 1985)
• ASR (acceleration slip regulation) as special equipment for V8 models (from 1985)
• The most successful high-end, luxury Mercedes-Benz sedan

The S-Class 126 series was launched in 1979 with a number of striking innovations: a lightweight construction throughout including new all-alloy V8 engines, optimised aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of 0.37 and a more advanced body structure for offset crashworthiness.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 126 series after its model refinement in 1985. The main new feature was the three-way catalytic converter, which was available as an option for all S-Class models.

Total protection for the front passenger too: Mercedes-Benz presented the front passenger airbag as an option for the S-Class 126 series in 1987. The safety system became available in February 1988.

The Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL with up to 220 kW (300 hp) was the new top-of-the-line car in the S-Class 126 series after its model refinement in 1985.

  Home < Mercedes-Benz < Mercedes-Benz Cars < Historical Models < 1999-1980