Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126, facelift 1985) 420 SEC V8 (218 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

8.9 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 4.5 / 5
Performance 4.2 / 5
Comfort 4.9 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz S-class:

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, formerly known as "special class" , is a series of full-sized luxury sedans and coupés produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The S-Class is the designation for top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz models and was officially introduced in 1972 with the W116, and has remained in use ever since. The S-Class is the flagship vehicle for Mercedes-Benz, being positioned above the other Mercedes-Benz models.
The S-Class has debuted many of the company's latest innovations, including drivetrain technologies, interior features, and safety systems. The S-Class has ranked as the world's best-selling luxury sedan. In automotive terms, Sonderklasse refers to "a specially outfitted car. " Although used colloquially for decades, following its official application in 1972, six generations of officially named S-Klasse sedans have been produced....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Coupe (C126, facelift 1985) Overview:

Mercedes-Benz S-class (Coupe (C126, facelift 1985)). With 330 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1600 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.3 s). The top speed reaches 218 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

420 SEC V8 (218 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A non-catalyzed 4.2L V8, providing smooth and adequate power for a luxury coupe, suitable for comfortable cruising and daily use.

Fuel Economy

Offers a reasonable balance of power and fuel consumption for a V8 of its size, though still a classic era engine.

Best Use Case: Comfortable daily driving, city and highway cruising, entry into C126 V8 ownership.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Timeless and elegant design
  • • Exceptional ride comfort and refinement
  • • Robust and powerful V8 engines
  • • High build quality and durability
  • • Strong classic car appeal and potential for appreciation
  • • Advanced safety features for its era (e.g., ABS)

Cons:

  • • High fuel consumption, especially for larger V8s
  • • Maintenance and parts can be expensive due to age and luxury status
  • • Rust can be an issue if not properly cared for
  • • Outdated technology compared to modern cars
  • • Large size can make city driving and parking challenging

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(SE (W116): August, 1972 - July, 1980).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:S-class
Generation:Coupe (C126, facelift 1985)
Modification (Engine):420 SEC V8 (218 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:August, 1985
End of production:September, 1987
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:218 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:52 Hp/l [25mm less]
Torque:330 Nm @ 3750 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 116 E 42 / 116.965 More details about the engine M 116 E 42 / 116.965
Engine displacement:4196
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:SOHC
Engine oil capacity:8 l
Coolant:12.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:92 mm
Piston Stroke:78.9 mm
Compression ratio:9:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:14.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.3 sec
Maximum speed:218 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.3 kg/Hp, 136.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.8 kg/Nm, 206.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1600
Max. weight:2120
Max load:520
Fuel tank capacity:90 l
Size:
Length:4935 mm [25mm less]
Width:1828 mm [42mm less]
Height:1407 mm [18mm less]
Wheelbase:2850 mm [10mm less]
Front track:1555 mm
Rear (Back) track:1527 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeCone worm with recirculation balls
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 205/65 R15
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 7J x 15
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionTrailing arm

Behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz S-class. How does it handle on the road?