The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C140) S 600 V12, produced from June 1995 to May 1996, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the C140 coupe range. Positioned as the flagship model, it offered a significantly more potent engine and exclusive features compared to the S 500 or S 420 variants. The C140 coupe itself was a standalone model, not directly part of the W140 sedan series, though sharing many underlying components and design philosophies. It aimed to provide a more sporting and exclusive alternative to the traditional S-Class sedan, appealing to buyers seeking a grand touring experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Coupe (C140) |
| Type (Engine) | S 600 V12 (394 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | June, 1995 |
| End of production | May, 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.6 l/100 km (11.4 US mpg, 13.7 UK mpg, 4.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10-12.1 l/100 km (23.5 – 19.4 US mpg, 28.2 – 23.3 UK mpg, 10 – 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 182 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 394 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 570 Nm @ 3800 rpm (420.41 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 120.982 |
| Engine displacement | 5987 cm3 (365.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.2 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 20 l (21.13 US qt | 17.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2165 kg (4773.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2720 kg (5996.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5065 mm (199.41 in.) |
| Width | 1912 mm (75.28 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.91 m (39.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S 600 V12 was the M120.982 engine, a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12. This engine was a significant departure from the V8s offered in other C140 models. It featured a 60-degree V-angle, all-aluminum construction, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder bank. The engine utilized Bosch Motronic engine management and multi-port fuel injection to deliver smooth and responsive power. The 10:1 compression ratio contributed to its high output. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was specifically calibrated to handle the V12’s substantial torque. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a relatively quick response for its time, though it wasn’t designed for aggressive performance driving.
Driving Characteristics
The S 600 V12 offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its V8-powered siblings. While not overtly sporty, the V12 provided effortless acceleration and a remarkable amount of torque throughout the rev range. The 6.6-second 0-60 mph time was impressive for a large, luxury coupe of the mid-1990s. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, prioritized comfort over outright speed, resulting in slightly slower gear changes than a more performance-oriented automatic. The gear ratios were tuned for relaxed highway cruising and effortless overtaking. The substantial weight of the vehicle (2165 kg / 4773 lbs) did limit agility, but the sophisticated suspension system minimized body roll and provided a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the range-topping model, the S 600 V12 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Leather upholstery was standard, along with wood trim, power-adjustable heated seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included a rear seat entertainment system, upgraded leather, and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior design was characterized by its understated elegance and high-quality materials. The C140 coupe generally featured a more driver-focused cockpit than the W140 sedan, with a slightly more sculpted dashboard and sportier seats.
Chassis & Braking
The C140 chassis was designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized coil springs and a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employed a more advanced hydro-pneumatic system with an independent multi-link design and a transverse stabilizer. This setup aimed to provide a smooth ride while maintaining good control. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The braking system was more than adequate for the car’s weight and performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 600 V12 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its smooth engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, its high price tag and substantial weight were points of criticism. Compared to the S 500, the V12 offered significantly more power and a more prestigious image, but at a considerable cost premium. The S 420 offered a more affordable entry point into the C140 coupe range, but lacked the V12’s effortless performance. Fuel economy was predictably poor, with combined figures around 15 mpg, reflecting the engine’s large displacement and the car’s weight.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C140) S 600 V12 remains a sought-after classic among collectors and enthusiasts. The M120 V12 engine is known for its durability and smooth operation, although maintenance can be expensive due to its complexity. Finding well-maintained examples is becoming increasingly difficult, and parts availability can be a challenge. Today, the C140 S 600 V12 represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and engineering excellence from a bygone era, and continues to command a premium in the used car market.
