The Mercedes-Benz S 600 V12, part of the W140 S-Class Long wheelbase range produced from March 1994 to August 1995, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance for the German automaker during that period. This variant, equipped with the M120 engine and a 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship model, offering a significantly more powerful and refined experience than the S320, S420, or even the S500 variants. The W140 S-Class, known for its robust build quality and advanced technology, aimed to solidify Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for engineering excellence and opulent comfort in the full-size luxury sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Long (V140, 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 (urban) | 20.7 l/100 km (11.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8-13.7 l/100 km (19.9 – 17.2 US mpg) |
| 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 | 5.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 20 l (21.13 US qt | 17.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2720 kg (5996.57 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 | 5213 mm (205.24 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3140 mm (123.62 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.51 m (41.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 | Hydro-pneumatic element, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| 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 is the M120.980 engine, a 6.0-liter (5,987 cc) naturally aspirated V12. This engine, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering, featured a robust cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It employed multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The M120 was known for its smooth power delivery and refined character, producing 394 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and a substantial 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 3,800 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque, making it exceptionally responsive for a vehicle of its size. Paired with the engine was the 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a four-speed unit designed to handle the V12’s considerable output. While not as sophisticated as later transmissions, the 4G-TRONIC provided smooth and reliable shifting, complementing the engine’s character.
Driving Characteristics
The S 600 V12 offered a driving experience distinctly different from its six and eight-cylinder siblings. The V12’s abundant torque provided effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds and a governed top speed of 155 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t geared for outright performance like some later sport automatics. However, it provided a relaxed and comfortable driving experience, perfectly suited to the S-Class’s grand touring intentions. Compared to the S500, the V12 offered a noticeable increase in power and refinement, while the S320 and S420 were significantly less powerful and geared towards fuel economy. The added weight of the V12 engine did slightly impact handling, but the sophisticated suspension system minimized body roll and provided a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the range-topping model, the S 600 V12 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, power-adjustable heated seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a sunroof. Optional extras included rear seat entertainment, a telephone system, and upgraded leather options. The long wheelbase version provided significantly more rear legroom, enhancing the comfort for passengers. The interior design emphasized elegance and sophistication, with a focus on high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
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 employed a hydro-pneumatic system, providing a remarkably smooth and controlled ride. The S 600 V12 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, but also provided good handling characteristics for a large sedan. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 600 V12 was widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. However, its high price tag limited its appeal to a relatively small segment of the market. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the V12 engine consuming a significant amount of gasoline. Compared to the S500, the V12 offered a noticeable step up in performance and refinement, but at a substantial price premium. The S320 and S420 offered a more affordable entry point into the S-Class range, but lacked the V12’s power and prestige.
Legacy
The M120 V12 engine is considered a masterpiece of engineering and is highly regarded by enthusiasts. While the W140 S-Class was eventually replaced by the W220 generation, the V12 variant remains a sought-after classic. The M120 engine is known for its durability and reliability, although maintenance can be expensive due to its complexity. Today, well-maintained S 600 V12 models command high prices in the used car market, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique blend of luxury, performance, and engineering excellence. The 4G-TRONIC transmission, while generally reliable, can require periodic servicing to ensure smooth operation.
