The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet (A217) S 500 V8, produced from September 2015 to 2017, represented the pinnacle of open-top luxury from the German automaker. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the A217 generation S-Class Cabriolet range, it offered a compelling blend of power, refinement, and advanced technology. This model occupied the upper echelon of the lineup, sitting above the S 400 and S 500 non-turbocharged models, and below the even more potent S 63 AMG. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a luxurious grand tourer experience with exhilarating performance, capitalizing on the growing demand for premium convertibles.
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Class |
| Generation | S-Class Cabriolet (A217) |
| Type | S 500 V8 (456 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.2-11.8 l/100 km (19.3 – 19.9 US mpg, 23.2 – 23.9 UK mpg, 8.2 – 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5-6.8 l/100 km (31.4 – 34.6 US mpg, 37.7 – 41.5 UK mpg, 13.3 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1-8.5 l/100 km (25.8 – 27.7 US mpg, 31 – 33.2 UK mpg, 11 – 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 212-199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 223.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 343.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 456 Hp @ 5250-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1800-3500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.929 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.1 l (12.79 US qt | 10.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2590 kg (5709.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5027 mm (197.91 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2108 mm (82.99 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1649 mm (64.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.60 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S 500 V8 Cabriolet lies the M278.929 engine, a 4.7-liter, twin-turbocharged V8. This engine is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s performance engineering, featuring direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. The twin turbochargers, strategically positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and deliver a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produces 456 horsepower at 5250-5500 rpm and a substantial 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 3500 rpm. This power is channeled through Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. The transmission’s wide gear ratio spread allows for both relaxed cruising and rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The S 500 V8 Cabriolet delivers a refined yet potent driving experience. The combination of the powerful V8 and the nine-speed automatic transmission results in effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in approximately 4.4 seconds, and the car feels remarkably composed even at high speeds. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is programmed for comfort in most driving modes, with quick and seamless gear changes when more aggressive settings are selected. Compared to the naturally aspirated S 500, the turbocharged S 500 V8 offers significantly improved low-end torque and responsiveness. While not as overtly sporty as the S 63 AMG, the S 500 V8 provides ample power for spirited driving and comfortable long-distance cruising. The air suspension, standard on this model, further enhances ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S 500 V8 Cabriolet came generously equipped as standard. Key features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, a premium Burmester surround sound system, and Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system with navigation. The AIRMATIC suspension system was also standard, providing adjustable ride height and damping. Optional extras included a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and various interior trim options. The exterior was typically adorned with chrome accents and elegant styling cues, befitting its flagship status. Interior color choices were extensive, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The A217 S-Class Cabriolet utilized a sophisticated chassis design featuring an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and precise handling. The S 500 V8 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control further enhanced safety. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion design with speed-sensitive power assistance, offering a balanced feel and responsive steering. The car’s weight distribution was carefully optimized to enhance handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 500 V8 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. Compared to the base S 400 Cabriolet, the S 500 V8 offered a significant performance upgrade. While the S 63 AMG provided even more exhilarating performance, the S 500 V8 struck a balance between power and comfort that appealed to a wider range of buyers. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the M278 engine proving to be a robust and durable unit when properly maintained.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet (A217) S 500 V8 remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of luxury, performance, and advanced technology continues to appeal to discerning buyers. The M278 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable with regular maintenance. Common issues, such as occasional turbocharger problems or oil leaks, are typically addressable by qualified technicians. The A217 generation S-Class Cabriolet represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s open-top luxury car history, and the S 500 V8 variant stands out as a particularly well-rounded and enjoyable model.
