The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 500 SE, part of the W126 facelift series produced from September 1985 to September 1987, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance for the German automaker during that period. Positioned as the top-of-the-line S-Class variant, the 500 SE featured a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine paired exclusively with a four-speed automatic transmission. This combination aimed to deliver effortless cruising and substantial power, catering to buyers who demanded both refinement and capability in a full-size luxury sedan. The W126 S-Class, overall, was a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz, introducing numerous technological advancements and setting a new standard for safety and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SE (W126, facelift 1985) |
| Type (Engine) | 500 SE V8 (245 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1985 |
| End of production | September, 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.4 l/100 km (15.3 US mpg, 18.3 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 4750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3750 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 117 E 50 / 117.965 |
| Engine displacement | 4973 cm3 (303.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| 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 (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 5020 mm (197.64 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1437 mm (56.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2930 mm (115.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Threaded twist beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/65 R15Rear wheel tires: 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7J x 15Rear wheel rims: 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 500 SE was the M117 E 50 engine, a 4.97-liter (303.47 cubic inches) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of the earlier M117 series, featured a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection system, known for its reliability and relatively smooth operation. The engine produced 245 horsepower at 4750 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission, a robust unit for its time, was specifically tuned to complement the V8’s power delivery, prioritizing smooth shifts and comfortable cruising. It wasn’t a particularly advanced transmission by modern standards, but it was well-suited to the car’s grand touring character.
Driving Characteristics
The 500 SE offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the smaller-engined S-Class models, such as the 280 SE or 380 SE. The V8 provided ample power for effortless acceleration and confident highway passing. While not a sports car, the 500 SE could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.9 seconds, a respectable figure for a large luxury sedan in the mid-1980s. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmissions in other S-Class variants. The gear ratios were geared towards relaxed cruising, making it less responsive in city driving. However, the overall experience was one of refined power and comfortable composure.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 500 SE came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Leather upholstery was standard, along with power-adjustable front seats, climate control, and a high-quality sound system. Power windows, central locking, and a sunroof were also included as standard equipment. Optional extras included upgraded leather, a rear seat entertainment system, and a more sophisticated audio setup. The interior trim was typically finished in wood veneer, adding to the car’s luxurious ambiance. The 500 SE was positioned as the flagship model, and its equipment level reflected that status.
Chassis & Braking
The W126 S-Class featured a robust chassis with independent suspension all around. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear employed a threaded twist beam. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 500 SE was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a comfortable and manageable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 500 SE was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, its fuel consumption was often noted as being relatively high, especially compared to the smaller-engined S-Class models. Compared to the 380 SE, the 500 SE offered significantly more performance, but at a higher price point. The 500 SE was also more expensive to maintain due to the complexity of the V8 engine and its associated systems. Despite these drawbacks, the 500 SE remained a popular choice for buyers who prioritized performance and luxury.
Legacy
The M117 V8 engine, found in the 500 SE, is known for its durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. The W126 S-Class, as a whole, is considered a classic Mercedes-Benz, and the 500 SE is particularly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. While fuel economy is a concern by modern standards, the 500 SE remains a compelling choice for those seeking a classic luxury sedan with a powerful and refined V8 engine.
