Mercedes-Benz S-class W221 S 320 CDI (235 Hp) 7G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 4.3 / 5
Comfort 5.0 / 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)

W221 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz S-class (W221). With 540 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.7 l/100km). With a weight of 1880 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.5 s). The top speed reaches 250 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.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 generation was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. However, it was equipped with numerous advanced safety features for its time, including PRE-SAFE, multiple airbags, and robust structural integrity, ensuring high levels of passive and active safety.

S 320 CDI (235 Hp) 7G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong torque provides effortless acceleration, making it feel more powerful than its horsepower suggests, especially at mid-range.

Fuel Economy

Outstanding fuel economy for a large luxury sedan, making it a highly economical choice for long journeys.

Best Use Case: Long-distance highway cruising and high-mileage drivers seeking efficiency without sacrificing luxury.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional ride comfort and luxurious interior
  • • Advanced technology and safety features for its era
  • • Wide range of powerful and refined engines, including efficient diesels
  • • Timeless, elegant design
  • • Excellent build quality and prestige

Cons:

  • • High running costs, especially for V8 petrol and AMG models
  • • Complex electronics can lead to expensive repairs
  • • Air suspension (Airmatic) can be a costly maintenance item
  • • Depreciation can be significant, though offers good used value
  • • Some interior plastics may show wear over time

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Long (V221): 2005 - 2009).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:S-class
Generation:W221
Modification (Engine):S 320 CDI (235 Hp) 7G-TRONIC
Start of production:2006
End of production:2009
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:235 Hp @ 3600 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:78.7 Hp/l [130mm less]
Torque:540 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:OM 642.930 More details about the engine OM 642.930
Engine displacement:2987
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:8.5 l
Coolant:7.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:83 mm
Piston Stroke:92 mm
Compression ratio:18:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:11.6-11.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.4-6.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.3-8.5 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.5 sec
Maximum speed:250 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:8 kg/Hp, 125 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.5 kg/Nm, 287.2 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.1 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1880
Max. weight:2550
Max load:670
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:560 l
Fuel tank capacity:90 l
Size:
Length:5079 mm [130mm less]
Width:1871 mm [1mm less]
Height:1473 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:3035 mm [130mm less]
Width including mirrors:2115 mm
Front track:1604 mm
Rear (Back) track:1606 mm
Front overhang:871 mm
Rear overhang:1173 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size235/55 R17
Wheel rims size8J x 17
Front suspensionAir suspension
Rear suspensionAir suspension

What’s the best feature of the Mercedes-Benz S-class? Tell us in the comments!