Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140)

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 W140 represents perhaps the last expression of Mercedes-Benz's philosophy of building the absolute best automobile regardless of cost. The W140, developed during the economically exuberant late 1980s, was over-engineered to a degree that would never again be repeated, incorporating every conceivable technology and material quality standard into what became the most expensive and complex sedan the company had ever produced.

Note: While the W140 S-Class launched in 1991, the S 600 V12 variant specifically appeared in 1993. The entry here refers to the W140 generation S 600. At its summit sat the S 600, powered by the M120 6.0-liter V12 engine. This extraordinary powerplant, featuring double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and 48 individual intake runners, produced 394 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Each M120 engine was hand-assembled by a single technician, who signed a plate affixed to the intake manifold.

The S 600 could accelerate to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds and was electronically limited to 155 mph, though Mercedes engineers acknowledged the car was capable of significantly more. The five-speed automatic transmission shifted with imperceptible smoothness, and the V12's power delivery was so linear and refined that occupants might not realize they were traveling at three-figure speeds without checking the instruments.

The W140's engineering ambition extended to every system. Double-pane side glass for noise isolation, hydraulic boot lid closing assistance, electrically operated rear sunshade, infrared remote central locking, and optional rear-seat entertainment were standard or available. The body featured extensive sound deadening, and the doors closed with a vault-like solidity that became a defining characteristic.

The chassis employed a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension and double-wishbone front arrangement, both tuned to provide an exceptionally refined ride while maintaining composure at autobahn speeds. Self-leveling rear suspension was standard on the S 600, maintaining ride height regardless of passenger or luggage load.

The W140 was also notable for its size. It was significantly larger than its W126 predecessor, a decision that proved controversial. Some critics felt it was too ostentatious, while others recognized that the additional size provided unprecedented levels of interior space and comfort. The long-wheelbase version offered almost limousine levels of rear-seat accommodation.

Production of the W140 S-Class ran from 1991 to 1998, with the S 600 representing the pinnacle of the range. The model's development costs were astronomical, and Mercedes-Benz reportedly lost money on every W140 sold. This financial reality, combined with changing market expectations, led to the more cost-conscious W220 successor.

Today, the W140 S 600 is undergoing a significant reappraisal. Once depreciated to bargain-basement prices, well-maintained examples are now climbing in value as enthusiasts recognize the car's extraordinary engineering and material quality. The W140 is increasingly viewed as the last Mercedes-Benz built without regard to cost, a final statement of automotive ambition from a company that once measured its success not by profit margins but by engineering excellence.