The Mercedes-Benz S 600 V12, part of the W140 S-Class facelift produced from March 1994 to August 1995, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance for the brand during that era. Positioned as the flagship model within the W140 range, it offered a significantly more potent engine and enhanced features compared to the S320, S420, and even the S500 variants. The W140 S-Class, introduced in 1991, was a substantial leap forward in terms of technology, safety, and refinement, and the 600 V12 embodied these advancements in their most extravagant form. This model catered to a discerning clientele seeking the ultimate in automotive prestige and power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class (W140, facelift 1994) |
| Type (Engine) | S 600 V12 (394 Hp) 4G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | March, 1994 |
| End of production | August, 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.7 l/100 km (11.4 US mpg, 13.6 UK mpg, 4.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 11.8-13.7 l/100 km (19.9 – 17.2 US mpg, 23.9 – 20.6 UK mpg, 8.5 – 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 180.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 261.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 394 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 570 Nm @ 3800 rpm (420.41 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 120.980 |
| Engine displacement | 5987 cm3 (365.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.2 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 18.5 l (19.55 US qt | 16.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2710 kg (5974.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 525 l (18.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5113 mm (201.3 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3040 mm (119.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.18 m (39.96 ft.) |
| 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 G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S 600 V12 was the M120.980 engine, a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12. This engine was a marvel of engineering, featuring all-aluminum construction, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder bank, and a sophisticated multi-port fuel injection system. The 60-degree V-angle was chosen for smoothness and compactness. The engine produced 394 horsepower at 5200 rpm and a substantial 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. This power was delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission. The 4G-TRONIC, while not as sophisticated as later automatic transmissions, was known for its smoothness and reliability. It was electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on throttle position and driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The S 600 V12 offered a driving experience characterized by effortless power and serene comfort. The V12 engine provided a broad torque curve, resulting in strong acceleration in any gear. While the 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds doesn’t seem particularly quick by modern standards, the sensation of relentless, smooth power was what defined the driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not offering the gear ratios of a modern eight or nine-speed unit, was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics. Compared to the S500, which featured a V8, the V12 offered a significantly more refined and powerful experience. The V12’s extra cylinders contributed to a smoother, quieter operation, and the increased torque made overtaking maneuvers feel effortless. The S 600 V12 wasn’t designed for sporty handling; its focus was on providing a luxurious and comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S 600 V12 came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its flagship status. Leather upholstery was standard, along with wood trim, power-adjustable heated seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Many examples were equipped with optional features such as a rear seat entertainment system, a refrigerator in the rear center console, and upgraded leather options. The interior was designed to be a sanctuary of comfort and luxury, with meticulous attention to detail. The exterior was typically finished in elegant colors, and the car featured unique V12 badging.
Chassis & Braking
The W140 S-Class featured a robust chassis with independent suspension all around. The front suspension utilized coil springs and double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link design. Both ends featured a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The S 600 V12 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, offering a comfortable and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 600 V12 was widely praised by automotive journalists for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. However, its high price tag and significant fuel consumption limited its appeal to a relatively small segment of the market. Compared to the S500, the V12 offered a substantial performance upgrade but came at a considerable cost. Fuel economy was predictably poor, with combined figures around 15 mpg. Reliability was generally good, but maintenance costs were high due to the complexity of the V12 engine and the abundance of luxury features.
Legacy
The W140 S 600 V12 remains a highly sought-after classic car today, particularly among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command high prices. The M120 V12 engine is considered a masterpiece of engineering, and its durability is legendary. While parts can be expensive and difficult to find, the engine is known to withstand high mileage with proper care. The S 600 V12 represents a bygone era of automotive excess and luxury, and it continues to be admired for its engineering excellence and timeless design. It stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to building the ultimate luxury automobile.
