Mercedes-Benz S-Class Model series 140 (1991 to 1998)

The S-Class of the model series 140 represented the new superlative at Mercedes-Benz in 1991. Its developers were aiming for maximum comfort, not least due to the larger dimensions and double glazing for optimum acoustic insulation. The top models, 600 SE and 600 SEL, were the first series production cars at Mercedes-Benz to feature a V12 engine. The entry model was the 300 SD turbo-diesel, which now brought luxury class to the diesel segment in the markets outside of North America too. This generation of the S-Class also introduced a pioneering safety innovation to the world of automotive engineering: the ESP® Electronic Stability Program which was fitted as standard on the V12 versions and was available as an option on the V8 models from 1995 onwards. The following year also saw the addition of the BAS Brake Assist System.

• Mercedes-Benz S-Class 140 model (1991 to 1998)
• Petrol engines with four-valve technology and variably adjustable inlet camshafts
• First Mercedes-Benz series production car with a twelve-cylinder engine, the brand's most powerful passenger car engine up to that point (600 SE, 600 SEL)
• Premium-class diesel 300 SD available for the first time on the world markets
• Systematically designed for a high level of recyclability
• Total avoidance of chlorofluorocarbons
• Five-speed automatic transmission with electronic management (standard fitment for V8 and V12 models, from 1995)
• Parameter steering with speed-dependent steering torque
• Insulating double glazing on side windows for reduced noise
• Automatic climate control with activated charcoal filter and CO/NOX sensors as standard equipment (S 600) or special equipment
• Electrically folding exterior mirror
• Closing assist for doors and boot lid as special equipment
• Headlamps with variable-focus reflectors
• Electronics linking via CAN-bus
• Restraint system with automatic height adjustment
• Side airbags for driver and front passenger (from 1996)
• Adaptive damping system (ADS) as special equipment
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP® ) as standard equipment (S 600, from 1995) or special equipment (S 420, S 500, from 1995)
• Brake Assist (BAS, from 1996)
• PARKTRONIC electronic parking aid as standard equipment (S 600, from 1995) or special equipment (from 1995)
• Auto Pilot System (APS) navigation system as special equipment (from 1995)
• TELE-AID emergency call system as special equipment (from 1997)
• LINGUATRONIC voice control system as special equipment (from 1996)
• Xenon headlights with dynamic headlamp range control as special equipment (from 1996)

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 140 series was regarded as the last word in luxury saloons at its launch in 1991.

In 1991, the Mercedes-Benz 600 SEL, from the S-Class 140 series, became the first Mercedes-Benz production passenger car with a V12 engine. The shiny chrome V12 emblem on the C-pillar was an understated but visible sign of its top-of-the-line status.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 140 series in its understated new look after a model refinement in 1994. Besides bearing the V12 emblem, the V12 models S 600 and S 600 long stood out from the other models in the series because the radiator grille had six instead of three chrome bars.

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