The Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL, produced from September 1987 to February 1992, represents the pinnacle of the W126 S-Class range, particularly after the 1985 facelift. This long-wheelbase sedan, designated as the SEL (Special Length), offered an even more luxurious experience than the standard W126 models. The 500 SEL, equipped with the M117 E 50 5.0-liter V8 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship performance variant, catering to buyers who desired both opulent comfort and substantial power. It solidified Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for engineering excellence and remains a highly sought-after classic today.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SEL (V126, facelift 1985) |
| Type (Engine) | 500 SEL V8 (265 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1987 |
| End of production | February, 1992 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 239.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 405 Nm @ 4000 rpm (298.71 lb.-ft. @ 4000 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 | 10:1 |
| 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 | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 290 kg (639.34 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 5160 mm (203.15 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1441 mm (56.73 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) 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, Torsion |
| 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 SEL is the M117 E 50 engine, a 4.973-liter (303.47 cubic inch) 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. Fuel delivery was handled by a Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection system, known for its reliability and precise metering. The engine produced 265 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 405 Nm (298.71 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission, a robust unit for its time, was specifically tuned to handle the V8’s power and provide smooth shifts. It wasn’t the most modern transmission by the late 80s, but it was known for its durability.
Driving Characteristics
The 500 SEL offered a distinctly grand touring experience. While not a sports car, the 265 hp V8 provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 6.8 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 146 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the manual transmission options available in other W126 models. Gear ratios were optimized for comfortable highway driving, with a focus on relaxed cruising rather than aggressive acceleration. The long wheelbase and sophisticated suspension provided a remarkably smooth and composed ride, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 500 SEL came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, befitting its flagship status. This included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, climate control, a premium sound system, and power windows and locks. The SEL models also featured extended legroom in the rear, enhancing passenger comfort. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and various wood trim options. The interior design was characterized by its understated elegance and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The W126 S-Class featured a robust chassis with independent suspension all around. The front suspension utilized double wishbones and torsion bars, while the rear employed a threaded twist beam. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 500 SEL was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs 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 precise driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 500 SEL was widely praised by automotive critics for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. It was considered a benchmark for luxury sedans of its era. Compared to the 300 SEL and 420 SEL, the 500 SEL offered significantly more performance and a more prestigious image. Fuel economy, however, was a notable drawback, with combined fuel consumption around 15.8 l/100 km. Reliability was generally good, although the complexity of the K-Jetronic fuel injection system could require specialized maintenance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL (W126) remains a highly collectible classic car. The M117 engine, while not the most fuel-efficient, is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. Well-maintained examples are increasingly rare and command high prices in the used car market. The 500 SEL represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and design, and it continues to be appreciated by enthusiasts for its blend of luxury, performance, and timeless style. Finding parts can sometimes be a challenge, but a dedicated network of suppliers and enthusiasts ensures that these cars can be kept on the road for years to come.
