The Mercedes-Benz S 600 V12, part of the W140 S-Class Long wheelbase range produced from September 1995 to September 1998, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance for the German automaker during that period. This variant, introduced with the 1994 facelift of the W140, featured a powerful 6.0-liter V12 engine paired with a five-speed 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission. Positioned as the flagship model, the S 600 V12 catered to buyers seeking the ultimate in refinement, technology, and effortless power. It was a statement vehicle, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and commitment to the 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) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 1995 |
| End of production | September, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 24.5 l/100 km (9.6 US mpg, 11.5 UK mpg, 4.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg, 16.7 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 400 g/km |
| 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, 179.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 260.3 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 120.982 |
| 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 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 was the M120.982 engine, a 5.987-liter (365.35 cubic inches) naturally aspirated V12. This engine featured a 60-degree V-angle, four valves per cylinder, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design. The M120 engine family was known for its over-engineering and robust construction, prioritizing smoothness and longevity over outright peak power. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, carefully calibrated to provide a refined throttle response and efficient combustion. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the V12’s characteristics, offering smooth and almost imperceptible gear changes. This transmission was a significant advancement for its time, utilizing electronic controls for optimized shift points and adaptive learning.
Driving Characteristics
The S 600 V12 offered a driving experience defined by effortless power and supreme comfort. While not designed for aggressive driving, the 394 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque provided brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.3 seconds – and confident passing capabilities. The 5G-TRONIC transmission contributed to this smoothness, masking the complexities of gear changes. Compared to the S 500 (V8) or the diesel-powered S 300 TD, the V12 offered a significantly more refined and powerful experience, albeit at the cost of considerably higher fuel consumption. The long wheelbase contributed to a stable and composed ride, further enhancing the luxurious feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the range-topping model, the S 600 V12 came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury features. Leather upholstery was standard, typically in a choice of high-quality hides. Wood trim adorned the interior, and features like automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats with memory function, and a premium sound system were all included. Optional extras included rear seat entertainment systems, a telephone system, and upgraded leather packages. The S 600 V12 also benefited from advanced safety features for its time, including ABS brakes and an airbag system.
Chassis & Braking
The W140 S-Class featured a robust chassis designed for both comfort and safety. The S 600 V12 utilized a coil spring and double wishbone suspension at the front, and a sophisticated hydro-pneumatic independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This rear suspension system, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering, provided a remarkably smooth and controlled ride. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping power and stability. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 600 V12 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. However, its high price tag and substantial fuel consumption were often noted. Compared to the other S-Class variants, the V12 offered a significant step up in performance and refinement, but it also came with a considerable premium. The S 500, with its V8 engine, provided a more balanced combination of performance and economy, while the diesel models prioritized fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The M120 V12 engine, while complex, proved to be remarkably durable when properly maintained. Today, the W140 S 600 V12 is considered a classic Mercedes-Benz, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of other S-Class variants due to the engine’s complexity and the age of the vehicle, the S 600 V12 remains a symbol of automotive luxury and engineering excellence. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, representing a unique and desirable piece of automotive history.
