The Mercedes-Benz S-Class SEL (V116) 350 SEL, produced between April 1978 and June 1980, represented a refined iteration of the prestigious W116 series. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the S-Class lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level 280 SEL and the more powerful 450 SEL. This variant, equipped with the M116 E 35 3.5-liter V8 engine and a three-speed automatic transmission, was aimed at buyers seeking a balance of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency. The “SEL” designation signified the long-wheelbase version, offering increased rear passenger legroom, a key feature for the S-Class’s target demographic. It was a flagship vehicle for Mercedes-Benz, embodying German engineering and luxury in a post-war era of automotive advancement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SEL (V116) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 SEL V8 (205 Hp) Automatic |
| 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 | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 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 | 3 gears, automatic 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 was the M116 E 35 engine, a 3.5-liter (3499 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, with two valves per cylinder. The M116 series was known for its robust construction and smooth operation. 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. Paired with this engine was a three-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and effortless gear changes. This transmission was a common choice for luxury vehicles of the era, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 350 SEL Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports car, the V8 engine provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The three-speed automatic transmission, while not offering the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, was well-suited to the car’s grand touring character. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.9 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). Compared to the 280 SEL, the 350 SEL offered noticeably more power and torque, resulting in improved acceleration and overall performance. However, it lacked the sharper handling and more engaging driving experience of the lighter, manual transmission-equipped models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 350 SEL came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its status as a luxury vehicle. Standard features included power windows, central locking, power steering, and a high-quality sound system. The interior was typically upholstered in leather, with wood trim adorning the dashboard and door panels. Optional extras included a sunroof, air conditioning, and a more advanced audio system. The long-wheelbase configuration provided generous rear passenger space, making it a popular choice for chauffeured transport. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most customization options revolving around interior colors and materials, and the addition of optional equipment packages.
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. Braking was accomplished via ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Power-assisted steering was standard, making the car easy to maneuver, especially at low speeds. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 350 SEL was well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and reliable V8 engine. Compared to the 280 SEL, the 350 SEL offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining relatively fuel-efficient for a vehicle of its size and class. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and that the car’s size made it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. In terms of reliability, the M116 engine proved to be exceptionally durable, with many examples still running today.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class SEL (V116) 350 SEL remains a highly sought-after classic car. Its combination of luxury, performance, and reliability has ensured its enduring appeal. The M116 engine is renowned for its longevity, and well-maintained examples can provide years of trouble-free service. Today, the 350 SEL is valued by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance and its embodiment of the Mercedes-Benz brand’s commitment to quality and engineering excellence. Finding original, unmolested examples is becoming increasingly difficult, driving up prices in the classic car market. The V116 S-Class, and the 350 SEL variant in particular, represents a high point in German automotive design and engineering.
