The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C217) S 500, produced from 2015 to 2017, represented the pinnacle of luxury two-door motoring from the German automaker. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the C217 S-Class Coupe range, it offered a compelling blend of grand touring comfort and substantial power. This model occupied the upper echelon of the lineup, sitting above the S 400 and S 550 models in terms of performance, though often overlapping in features and luxury appointments. The C217 generation itself was a standalone coupe, diverging from the traditional S-Class sedan and offering a more driver-focused experience while retaining the flagship’s renowned refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Coupe (C217) |
| Type (Engine) | S 500 (455 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2015 year |
| End of production | 2017 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.5-11.7 l/100 km (20.5 – 20.1 US mpg, 24.6 – 24.1 UK mpg, 8.7 – 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.4-7.0 l/100 km (36.8 – 33.6 US mpg, 44.1 – 40.4 UK mpg, 15.6 – 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.3-8.8 l/100 km (28.3 – 26.7 US mpg, 34 – 32.1 UK mpg, 12 – 11.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 193-204 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 224.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 344.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 455 Hp @ 5250-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1800-3500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.929 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.1 l (12.79 US qt | 10.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2585 kg (5698.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5027 mm (197.91 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Height | 1411 mm (55.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1649 mm (64.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 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 | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The S 500 Coupe was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s M278.929 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of the Mercedes-Benz performance lineup during this period, featured direct injection and twin turbochargers. The twin-turbo setup, with one turbocharger per cylinder bank, provided a broad torque curve and minimized turbo lag. The engine produced 455 horsepower at 5250-5500 rpm and a substantial 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1800 rpm all the way to 3500 rpm. This power was delivered to the rear wheels via Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. The 9G-TRONIC was designed for both fuel efficiency and smooth, responsive shifting, offering a wide range of gear ratios to optimize performance and economy. The transmission featured paddle shifters for manual control, allowing drivers to engage more directly with the powertrain.
Driving Characteristics
The S 500 Coupe offered a distinctly grand touring experience. The combination of the powerful V8 and the nine-speed automatic resulted in effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in approximately 4.4 seconds, and the car was electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The 9G-TRONIC transmission, while prioritizing efficiency, provided quick and seamless gear changes in automatic mode. In manual mode, the paddle shifters allowed for precise control, though the transmission’s programming sometimes exhibited a reluctance to downshift aggressively. Compared to the S 550 Coupe, the S 500 offered a slightly more balanced driving experience, with less emphasis on outright power and more on refined comfort. The S 500 also felt more agile than the heavier, more powerful S 63 AMG variant.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S 500 Coupe came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, a premium Burmester sound system, and a large infotainment screen with navigation were all standard. The interior was meticulously crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail. Optional extras included a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic parking. Interior color schemes were customizable, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. Exterior options included a variety of wheel designs and paint colors.
Chassis & Braking
The C217 S-Class Coupe featured an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was electronically controlled, adapting to road conditions and driving style. The S 500 Coupe was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with speed-sensitive power assistance, offering precise and responsive handling. The car rode on 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, with larger wheel sizes available as an option.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 500 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. Critics noted that the 9G-TRONIC transmission contributed to improved fuel economy compared to older automatic transmissions. However, some reviewers found the transmission’s programming to be overly conservative in certain situations. Compared to the S 400 Coupe, the S 500 offered a significant performance upgrade. Compared to the S 550, the S 500 provided a slightly more balanced driving experience, with less emphasis on outright power. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of this size and performance, averaging around 28 mpg combined.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C217) S 500 remains a desirable luxury coupe in the used car market. The M278 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include occasional turbocharger problems and oil leaks. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be durable, though regular fluid changes are essential. The C217 S-Class Coupe, and particularly the S 500 variant, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s grand touring heritage, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology.
