The Mercedes-Benz S 420, produced between 1993 and 1994, represented a significant offering within the W140 generation of the S-Class. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it bridged the gap between the entry-level S 320 and the flagship S 500, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and technology for the American market. The W140 S-Class, launched in 1991, was a technological tour-de-force for Mercedes-Benz, introducing innovations like electronically controlled damping, double-glazed windows, and a redesigned climate control system. The S 420, with its 4.2-liter V8 engine, aimed to provide a more spirited driving experience than the six-cylinder S 320 while remaining more accessible than the top-tier V12 powered S 600.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class (W140) |
| Type (Engine) | S 420 V8 (279 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 279 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3900 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 119 E 42/119.970, 119.971 |
| Engine displacement | 4196 cm3 (256.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.9 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.5 l (17.44 US qt | 14.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2640 kg (5820.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 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%) | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Length | 5113 mm (201.3 in.) |
| Width | 1886 mm (74.25 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3040 mm (119.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.18 m (39.96 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S 420 was the M119 E 42 engine, a 4.2-liter (4196 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine was a significant evolution of Mercedes-Benz’s V8 architecture, featuring all-aluminum construction, a sophisticated dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and Bosch Motronic fuel injection. The M119 was known for its smooth power delivery and relatively high specific output for a naturally aspirated engine of its era. The engine produced 279 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 3900 rpm. Paired exclusively with a four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 722.3), the S 420 prioritized comfortable cruising over outright acceleration. The transmission was electronically controlled, offering smooth shifts but lacking the responsiveness of later, more advanced automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The S 420 offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the 4.2-liter V8 provided ample power for effortless highway cruising and confident passing maneuvers. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in slightly slower acceleration compared to the manual transmission options available in other S-Class models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and relaxed driving, rather than aggressive performance. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, providing a plush ride. Steering was precise but lacked significant feedback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S 420 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, befitting its status as a flagship sedan. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power windows and locks. Optional extras included a sunroof, rear seat entertainment system, and upgraded leather options. The interior design was characterized by its elegant simplicity and high-quality materials. Wood trim was used extensively throughout the cabin, adding to the sense of luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The W140 S-Class featured a robust chassis with double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The S 420 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The braking system provided ample stopping power, although it lacked the advanced features found in later Mercedes-Benz models. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S 420 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the four-speed automatic transmission felt dated compared to the five-speed automatics offered by competitors. Compared to the S 320, the S 420 offered a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable than the range-topping S 500. Fuel economy was a concern for some, with the S 420 consuming a significant amount of fuel, especially in city driving.
Legacy
The W140 S-Class, including the S 420, is now considered a classic Mercedes-Benz. The M119 engine is known for its durability and reliability, although maintenance can be expensive due to its complexity. Well-maintained S 420 models are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The car represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and design, offering a unique blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Finding parts can be challenging, but a dedicated aftermarket supports the W140 platform. The S 420 remains a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to building high-quality, long-lasting automobiles.
