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Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL (V116) 350 SEL V8 (195 Hp)
Overall Rating
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)
SEL (V116) Overview:
Mercedes-Benz S-class (SEL (V116)). With 275 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1700 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10 s). The top speed reaches 205 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
350 SEL V8 (195 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A capable V8 engine delivering smooth power and respectable acceleration, characteristic of the S-class luxury experience.
Fuel Economy
Typical V8 fuel consumption for the period, offering a balance between power and acceptable running costs for its class.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional build quality and durability for its era
- • Luxurious and comfortable interior, ideal for long journeys
- • Smooth and powerful V8 engine options, especially the 6.9L
- • Timeless design and classic car appeal
- • Advanced features for its time (e.g., ABS, hydropneumatic suspension on 6.9)
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption across most engine variants
- • Expensive maintenance and parts, especially for specialized components
- • Safety features are rudimentary by modern standards
- • Large exterior dimensions can make city driving challenging
- • Potential for rust if not properly maintained
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(SE (W116): January, 1972 - April, 1978).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | S-class |
| Generation: | SEL (V116) |
| Modification (Engine): | 350 SEL V8 (195 Hp) |
| Start of production: | January, 1976 |
| End of production: | April, 1978 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 195 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 55.7 Hp/l [100mm more] |
| Torque: | 275 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 116 E 35 / 116.985 More details about the engine M 116 E 35 / 116.985 |
| Engine displacement: | 3499 |
| 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: | 8 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 92 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 65.8 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 13 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 205 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1700 |
| Max. weight: | 2220 |
| Max load: | 520 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 530 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 96 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5060 mm [100mm more] |
| Width: | 1870 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1430 mm [5mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2960 mm [100mm more] |
| Front track: | 1521 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1505 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
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