The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) AMG S 55, produced from 1999 to 2002, represented a significant step forward in performance and luxury for the flagship S-Class range. Positioned as the high-performance variant within the W220 generation, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of opulent comfort and exhilarating speed. This model marked a key moment in AMG’s increasing involvement in developing dedicated performance versions of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, moving beyond simple modifications. The S 55 served as a direct competitor to high-performance luxury sedans from BMW and Jaguar, establishing itself as a benchmark in the segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class (W220) |
| Type | AMG S 55 (360 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 198.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 292.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 3150 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 3150 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113 E 55/113.986 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88 l (23.25 US gal | 19.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 5038 mm (198.35 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2092 mm (82.36 in.) |
| Height | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2965 mm (116.73 in.) |
| Front track | 1574 mm (61.97 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Front overhang | 867 mm (34.13 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1206 mm (47.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18; 275/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG S 55 was the M113 E 55 engine, a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine was a significant departure from previous Mercedes-Benz V8s, featuring all-aluminum construction, a short-stroke design, and three valves per cylinder. The M113 utilized a multi-port fuel injection system and a relatively high 10:1 compression ratio to produce 360 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque at 3150 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smooth power delivery and responsiveness. Paired with the engine was the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by Mercedes-Benz. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’ mode, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The transmission was specifically tuned to handle the increased power output of the AMG engine.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG S 55 delivered a markedly different driving experience compared to the standard S-Class models. The increased power and torque resulted in significantly quicker acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.7 seconds and a governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). While not as brutally fast as some contemporary sports cars, the S 55 offered a refined and effortless surge of power. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as quick-shifting as some of the newer automatic transmissions available at the time. However, it provided a comfortable and predictable driving experience, well-suited to the S-Class’s grand touring character. The suspension was also tuned by AMG, offering a firmer ride than the standard S-Class, but still prioritizing comfort for long-distance journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG S 55 came generously equipped, reflecting its position as the top-of-the-line S-Class variant. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats with memory function, and a premium sound system. Exterior features included AMG-specific body styling, including unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, rear seat entertainment, and various driver assistance systems. The interior typically featured a two-tone color scheme and AMG badging throughout.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the AMG S 55 was reinforced to handle the increased power and torque. The suspension featured stiffer springs and dampers, along with a larger stabilizer bar, to reduce body roll and improve handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering utilized a hydraulic power steering system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG S 55 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the 5G-TRONIC transmission could feel a bit dated compared to newer automatic transmissions. Compared to other S-Class variants, such as the S 430 or S 320, the S 55 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was predictably lower than the less powerful models, averaging around 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg). Compared to rivals like the BMW 750iL and Jaguar XJ8, the S 55 offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and build quality.
Legacy
The W220 AMG S 55 represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of Mercedes-AMG. It demonstrated the brand’s ability to create high-performance versions of its flagship luxury sedan that didn’t compromise on comfort or refinement. The M113 engine proved to be a robust and reliable powerplant, and many examples remain on the road today. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of the standard S-Class models, the AMG S 55 remains a desirable and collectible vehicle, appreciated by enthusiasts for its blend of performance, luxury, and timeless design. In the used car market, well-maintained examples command a premium, reflecting their status as a classic of the early 2000s performance luxury segment.
