The Mercedes-Benz S-Class SEL (V116) 350 SEL V8, produced from April 1978 to June 1980, represented a significant evolution of Mercedes-Benz’s flagship sedan. Part of the second generation (W116) S-Class, the “SEL” designation denoted the long-wheelbase variant, offering increased rear passenger space and a more luxurious experience. This 350 SEL V8 model occupied a middle ground in the V116 lineup, positioned above the six-cylinder models and below the more powerful 450 SEL and 450 SEL 6.9. It aimed to provide a balance of performance, refinement, and relative affordability within the S-Class range, appealing to buyers who desired the prestige of the S-Class without the top-tier price tag.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SEL (V116) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 SEL V8 (205 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 1978 |
| End of production | June, 1980 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 205 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 284 Nm @ 4000 rpm (209.47 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 116 E 35 / 116.985 |
| Engine displacement | 3499 cm3 (213.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 65.8 mm (2.59 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 | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 5060 mm (199.21 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2960 mm (116.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1505 mm (59.25 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/70 R14 Rear wheel tires: 205/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 Rear wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 350 SEL V8 was the M116 E 35 engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per bank, operating two valves per cylinder. The M116 was known for its smooth operation and durability. Fuel delivery was handled by a Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection system, a sophisticated system for its time that contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to carbureted engines. The engine produced 205 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 284 Nm (209.47 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle. The 350 SEL V8 was equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission as standard, though an optional 4-speed automatic transmission was also available.
Driving Characteristics
The 350 SEL V8 offered a refined and comfortable driving experience, typical of the S-Class. With 205 hp, acceleration was respectable for the era, achieving 0-60 mph in around 9.5 seconds. However, it wasn’t a sports car. The focus was on smooth power delivery and effortless cruising. Compared to the 450 SEL models, the 350 SEL felt less powerful, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission provided more driver engagement, while the automatic offered greater convenience, though at the expense of some responsiveness. The long wheelbase contributed to a stable ride, but also made the car feel large and somewhat cumbersome in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 350 SEL V8 came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its status as a luxury sedan. This included power-assisted steering, power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, central locking, electric windows, and a high-quality sound system. The interior was typically trimmed with leather upholstery, and wood veneer accents were used throughout the cabin. Optional extras included a sunroof, air conditioning, and a more advanced audio system. The SEL models, with their extended wheelbase, offered significantly more rear legroom than the standard S-Class models, making them particularly appealing to those who were often chauffeured.
Chassis & Braking
The V116 S-Class featured a robust chassis with independent suspension all around. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear employed a trailing arm setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 350 SEL V8 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and solid disc brakes on the rear. The braking system was assisted by a hydraulic booster, providing ample stopping power. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 350 SEL V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and smooth engine. However, some critics noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as that of the larger-engined models. Compared to the 450 SEL, the 350 SEL offered better fuel economy, but at the cost of some power. The 350 SEL also represented a more accessible entry point into the S-Class range, making it a popular choice for buyers who wanted the prestige of the S-Class without the higher price tag of the top-of-the-line models.
Legacy
The M116 engine family, including the 3.5-liter version found in the 350 SEL V8, is renowned for its durability and longevity. Well-maintained examples can still be found on the road today, testament to the quality of engineering. The V116 S-Class, as a whole, is considered a classic of the era, and the 350 SEL V8 remains a desirable model for collectors and enthusiasts. While parts availability can be a challenge, the M116 engine is relatively straightforward to maintain, and a dedicated community of enthusiasts exists to support owners. The 350 SEL V8 represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and design, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and reliability that continues to appeal to discerning drivers.
