The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Long (V140) 300 SE, produced from 1991 to 1993, represented a significant step forward in luxury and technology for the German automaker. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the extended wheelbase (Long) V140 generation, the 300 SE combined a refined inline-six engine with a five-speed automatic transmission, targeting buyers who prioritized comfort and effortless cruising over outright performance. The “Long” designation indicated an extended wheelbase, providing increased rear passenger legroom, a feature particularly valued in markets like Germany and increasingly, the United States. This model served as a bridge between the more basic 280 SE and the flagship 500 SE, offering a balance of power, features, and price.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Long (V140) |
| Type | 300 SE (231 Hp) Automatic 5-speed |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.3 l/100 km (14.4 US mpg, 17.3 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 4100 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 104 E 32/104.990 |
| Engine displacement | 3199 cm3 (195.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 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 | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.5 l (15.32 US qt | 12.76 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2420 kg (5335.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 525 l (18.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5213 mm (205.24 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1492 mm (58.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3140 mm (123.62 in.) |
| Front track | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1574 mm (61.97 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.18 m (39.96 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 300 SE was powered by the M104.990 3.2-liter inline-six engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s mid-range offerings in the early 1990s, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, incorporating dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a Bosch multi-port fuel injection system, contributing to smooth operation and relatively good fuel efficiency for its class. The engine produced 231 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm. Paired with the engine was a five-speed automatic transmission (typically the 5G-Tronic), designed for seamless gear changes and a comfortable driving experience. This transmission was known for its smoothness but lacked the sportiness of some contemporary automatic gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 300 SE Automatic offered a distinctly comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the engine provided adequate power for effortless highway cruising and confident acceleration. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in a slight reduction in responsiveness compared to the available manual transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and comfort, prioritizing relaxed cruising over aggressive acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.2 seconds was respectable for the era, but noticeably slower than the manual versions or the higher-powered 500 SE. The long wheelbase contributed to a stable and composed ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 300 SE Long came standard with a generous array of features befitting its luxury status. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a high-quality sound system, and power windows and locks. Wood trim adorned the interior, adding to the sense of opulence. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, rear seat entertainment, and various exterior cosmetic enhancements. The level of standard equipment positioned the 300 SE as a well-appointed vehicle, appealing to buyers who desired a comfortable and technologically advanced sedan.
Chassis & Braking
The V140 S-Class featured a robust chassis with double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, providing light and effortless steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 300 SE Long was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel somewhat sluggish, and the car lacked the sporting character of some of its rivals. Compared to the 280 SE, the 300 SE offered a significant power upgrade and a more luxurious experience. In contrast to the 500 SE, the 300 SE was more affordable and offered better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for many buyers. Fuel economy figures were around 11.2 l/100 km combined, which was typical for a large luxury sedan of the time.
Legacy
The M104 engine, found in the 300 SE, is known for its durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. The five-speed automatic transmission, while not as sporty as some alternatives, is also generally reliable. Today, the V140 S-Class, including the 300 SE, is gaining recognition as a classic luxury car. Well-maintained examples are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their comfort, build quality, and timeless design. The 300 SE represents a sweet spot in the V140 lineup, offering a balance of luxury, performance, and affordability in the used car market.
