The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560 SE, produced from April 1988 to January 1991, represents the pinnacle of the W126 generation following its 1985 facelift. This model, equipped with the M117 E 56 5.6-liter V8 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship luxury sedan in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup. It offered a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology for its time, solidifying the S-Class’s reputation as a benchmark in the luxury automotive segment. The 560 SE catered to buyers seeking the most powerful and refined S-Class experience available without opting for the even more exclusive and expensive SEL (long wheelbase) variant.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SE (W126, facelift 1985) |
| Type (Engine) | 560 SE V8 (300 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 1988 |
| End of production | January, 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 166.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 252.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 455 Nm @ 3750 rpm (335.59 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 117 E 56 / 117.968 |
| Engine displacement | 5547 cm3 (338.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.8 mm (3.73 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 | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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 | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 560 SE is the M117 E 56 engine, a 5.6-liter (5547 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of the long-running M117 family, featured a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection delivered fuel to the cylinders, a system known for its reliability but less precise than later electronic fuel injection systems. The engine produced 300 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 455 Nm (335.59 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission, a robust unit for its time, was designed to provide smooth and comfortable shifts, prioritizing luxury over outright performance. It featured a torque converter for smooth engagement and a relatively conservative gear ratio spread, tailored for grand touring rather than aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 560 SE offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its six-cylinder siblings or even the later, more technologically advanced S-Class models. While not a sports car, the V8 engine provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, and the gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy and refinement. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 6.5-6.8 seconds, respectable for a large luxury sedan of the late 1980s. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, providing a plush ride. However, it wasn’t as sharp or responsive as the suspension found on sportier S-Class variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 560 SE came standard with a comprehensive list of features befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, climate control, a premium sound system, power windows, power locks, and cruise control. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, a rear seat entertainment system, and upgraded leather options. The interior was characterized by its high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a generally understated elegance. Wood trim was liberally used throughout the cabin, adding to the sense of luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The W126 S-Class featured a robust chassis with double wishbone suspension at the front and a threaded twist beam rear axle. This setup provided a good balance of comfort and handling. The 560 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 stability during hard braking. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, offering a relatively light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 560 SE was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some criticized its relatively high price and the somewhat dated technology compared to emerging competitors. Compared to the 420 SE and 300 SE, the 560 SE offered significantly more performance and a more refined driving experience. Fuel economy, however, was considerably lower. Compared to later S-Class models, the 560 SE lacked the advanced electronic features and more efficient engines of the W140 generation.
Legacy
The M117 engine, while not known for being particularly fuel-efficient, is renowned for its durability and longevity. Well-maintained 560 SE models can still provide reliable transportation today. The W126 S-Class, as a whole, is considered a classic by many enthusiasts, and the 560 SE, as the most powerful variant, holds a special place in the model’s history. In the used car market, the 560 SE commands a premium over its lower-powered siblings, reflecting its desirability and relative rarity. Finding well-preserved examples can be challenging, as many were used as daily drivers and may require significant restoration work. However, for those seeking a classic luxury sedan with a powerful V8 engine and timeless style, the 560 SE remains an appealing choice.
