The Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560 SE, produced from April 1988 to January 1991, represents the pinnacle of the W126 generation’s facelifted models. This variant, equipped with the M117 E 56 V8 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship offering within the S-Class range. It embodied Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, performance, and engineering excellence, solidifying the S-Class’s reputation as a benchmark for full-size luxury sedans. The 560 SE catered to buyers seeking the most powerful and refined experience the W126 platform could deliver.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SE (W126, facelift 1985) |
| Type (Engine) | 560 SE V8 CAT (279 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 1988 |
| End of production | January, 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.6 l/100 km (13.4 US mpg, 16.1 UK mpg, 5.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 155 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 238.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 279 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 3750 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 117 E 56 / 117.968 |
| Engine displacement | 5547 cm3 (338.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.8 mm (3.73 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 5020 mm (197.64 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1437 mm (56.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2930 mm (115.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Threaded twist beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front: 215/65 R15, Rear: 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front: 7J x 15, Rear: 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 560 SE is the M117 E 56 engine, a 5.5-liter (5547 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering, features a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, a mechanical system known for its reliability, delivers fuel to the cylinders. The M117 engine is renowned for its smooth power delivery and robust construction. The 560 SE’s engine produced 279 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. Paired with the engine is a four-speed automatic transmission (722.3 series), chosen for its smooth shifting and suitability for luxury cruising. This transmission was a standard feature, with no manual transmission option available for this model.
Driving Characteristics
The 560 SE offered a distinctly grand touring experience. While not overtly sporty, the combination of the powerful V8 and the automatic transmission provided effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 6.8 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 149 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, meaning the engine sometimes felt slightly strained during aggressive driving. Compared to the lighter and more nimble 300 SE or the fuel-efficient diesel variants, the 560 SE prioritized comfort and relaxed power over outright agility. The gear ratios were optimized for highway cruising, making long journeys a pleasure.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 560 SE came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Leather upholstery was standard, along with power-adjustable front seats with memory function. Climate control, power windows, central locking, and a high-quality sound system were also included. The interior trim typically featured wood accents on the dashboard and door panels. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and rear seat entertainment. The 560 SE represented the highest trim level, offering a more luxurious and well-equipped cabin than the lower-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The W126 S-Class featured a robust chassis with double wishbone suspension at the front and a threaded twist beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The 560 SE, being the heavier variant, benefited from slightly stiffer spring rates and dampers compared to the smaller-engined models. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a comfortable and relatively precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 560 SE was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. However, its fuel consumption was often noted as being high, even for a large luxury sedan. Compared to the 420 SE or 560 SEL (long wheelbase version), the 560 SE offered a noticeable performance advantage. The 300 SE, while more fuel-efficient and agile, lacked the prestige and power of the 560 SE. Reliability was generally good, although the complex K-Jetronic fuel injection system could require specialized maintenance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz 560 SE remains a highly sought-after classic car today. The M117 engine is known for its durability, and well-maintained examples can still provide years of reliable service. However, finding parts for the K-Jetronic fuel injection system can be challenging. The W126 S-Class, including the 560 SE, is celebrated for its over-engineered build quality and timeless design. It represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and continues to be appreciated by enthusiasts and collectors alike. The 560 SE’s combination of luxury, performance, and build quality has cemented its place as a significant vehicle in automotive history.
