The Mercedes-Benz W116 series, produced from 1972 to 1980, represented a significant leap forward in luxury and safety for the German automaker. The 350 SE V8, specifically manufactured between April 1978 and September 1980, occupied a crucial position within the lineup as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the entry-level 280 SE and the flagship 450 SE. This model combined the prestige of the S-Class with a potent V8 engine and the convenience of an automatic transmission, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and capable grand tourer. It was a key part of the post-oil-crisis strategy, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy relative to its larger displacement siblings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SE (W116) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 SE V8 (205 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 1978 |
| End of production | September, 1980 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 122.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 205 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 284 Nm @ 4000 rpm (209.47 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 116 E 35 / 116.983 |
| Engine displacement | 3499 cm3 (213.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 65.8 mm (2.59 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2195 kg (4839.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4960 mm (195.28 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2860 mm (112.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| 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 | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/70 R14 Rear wheel tires: 205/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 Rear wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 350 SE V8 is the M116 E 35 engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and utilized Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection. This system, while complex for its time, provided precise fuel delivery, contributing to both performance and relatively good fuel economy for a V8. The engine produced 205 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 284 Nm (209.47 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s robust construction and over-engineering were hallmarks of Mercedes-Benz, designed for longevity and smooth operation. The automatic transmission was a three-speed unit, chosen for its comfort and ease of use, aligning with the S-Class’s luxury positioning. It wasn’t designed for rapid acceleration, but rather for seamless cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 350 SE V8 offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its six-cylinder or larger V8 siblings. While not as overtly powerful as the 450 SE, the 3.5-liter engine provided ample power for comfortable highway cruising and effortless acceleration in most situations. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available four-speed manual. The gear ratios were optimized for relaxed driving, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.8 seconds was respectable for the era, but noticeably slower than the manual versions. The focus was on providing a refined and quiet ride, typical of the S-Class ethos.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 350 SE V8 came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its status as a luxury vehicle. This included power-assisted steering, power-assisted brakes, central locking, electric windows, and a high-quality radio. Interior upholstery was typically leather, available in a range of colors. Wood trim adorned the dashboard and door panels, adding to the sense of opulence. Optional extras included a sunroof, air conditioning (often considered essential), and upgraded sound systems. The level of standard equipment was generous, but buyers could further personalize their vehicles with a variety of options.
Chassis & Braking
The W116 chassis featured independent suspension all around, with double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable and controlled ride. The 350 SE V8 utilized ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Power steering was standard, making maneuvering the large sedan relatively easy. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 350 SE V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the engine’s performance somewhat. Compared to the 280 SE, the 350 SE V8 offered a significant power upgrade, while being more affordable and fuel-efficient than the 450 SE. It struck a balance that appealed to a broad range of buyers seeking a luxurious and capable sedan. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a V8 engine of that era.
Legacy
The M116 engine family, including the 3.5-liter variant found in the 350 SE V8, is renowned for its durability and longevity. Well-maintained examples can still be found on the road today, a testament to the quality of Mercedes-Benz engineering. The 350 SE V8 has become a sought-after classic car, appreciated by enthusiasts for its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and robust powertrain. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific components can be difficult to source. The car represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and design, and remains a desirable and collectible vehicle in the used car market.
