West Germany vs Germany — 1979 vs 2006
| S-Class W126 560 SEC | S 65 AMG W221 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 604 hp |
| Torque | 336 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,547 cc | 5,980 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,924 lbs | 4,971 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 3,165 mm |
| Length | 4,935 mm | 5,230 mm |
| Units Produced | 74,060 | — |
| Original MSRP | $73,000 | $198,275 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG W221 answers with more power, quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The 1979 and 2006 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG W221 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 604 hp compared to 300 hp, a 304-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class uses a V8 SOHC displacing 5,547 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG relies on a V12 SOHC 36V Bi-Turbo with 5,980 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG W221 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1047 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.