The Top 5 Mercedes S-Class Models in History

German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its high-quality luxury sedans, and the S-Class series offers some of its finest vehicles. Formerly known as Sonderklasse, S-Class stands for “Special Class.”

Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedans are top-of-the-line, flagship models that often feature innovative technology that over time will make its way into smaller cars. These machines are characterized by their sleek and classy aesthetics, powerful performance, and excellent handling.

This begs the question: which S-Class models feel the best to drive, feel the most reliable, and offer the best overall aesthetic? Let’s find out. 

Mercedes-Benz W116 1972

One of the best Mercedes-Benz S-Class models of all time is the one that started it all. Mercedes-Benz released the W116 line in 1972, making it the first official S-klasse model.

The Mercedes-Benz W116 1972 remains an iconic vehicle to this day because it changed American drivers’ idea of luxury. The W116 featured a squatter grille with long, fluted, and horizontally positioned headlights. It also had wraparound taillights and a flat trunk surface. These styling elements became so popular that they were carried by Mercedes sedans well into the 90s.

Though its performance might be considered lacking by today’s standards, it was a very powerful and reliable vehicle for its time, rocking a 2.8L M110 inline-six engine. Later models of the same series reached new performance peaks with the introduction of newer engine types such as the 6.8 L M100 V8 in 1975.

• Engine Specs: 2.8-liter I6
• Curb Weight: 3549 lbs
• Power: 158 hp @ 5,500 rpm
• Torque: 166 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 118 mph

Mercedes-Benz W221 2009

The 2009 facelift gave the W221 some much-needed upgrades, debuting innovative driver-assist technology that was particularly noteworthy for its time. These include fatigue sensors, night view assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, and lane-keeping assist, among others.

While its predecessor’s interior featured a fair amount of plastic trim and switches, the W221 exuded luxury by replacing them with materials like wood, leather, and metal. The instrument panel featured two flat screens which replaced the analog speedometer and served as the navigation screen.

One of the W221’s greatest accomplishments is that it cemented Mercedes-Benz’s place at the forefront of innovating features and systems, which have now been widely adopted in the automotive industry.

• Engine Specs: 3.5-liter V6
• Curb Weight: 4145 lbs
• Power: 272 hp @ 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 258 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 155 mph

Mercedes-Benz W222 2017

Much like its predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz W222 is equipped with all sorts of technology, and it offers a pleasant mix of power, utility, and comfort all without sacrificing its performance.

However, what distinguishes the W222 from models of the previous generation is its looks. Though the overall aesthetics of the two models are mostly similar, the W222 rocks a new grille and a new bumper. The lights have also been modified to give it a smoother, yet more angular look.

Vehicles from the W222 model series were also the first to completely do away with traditional bulbs. They featured around 500 LEDs in their interior and exterior.

In terms of performance, the W222 also boasts a quieter engine without giving up any of its power. In addition, the model handles extremely well and you can expect a smooth and satisfying drive with little to no bumps.

• Engine Specs: 3-liter I6
• Curb Weight: 4178 lbs
• Power: 286 hp @ 3,400-4,600 rpm
• Torque: 443 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 155 mph

Mercedes-Benz W140 1998

The W140 is arguably the most popular S-Class generation of all time thanks to its timeless design, innovative technology, and solid build quality. This generation introduced features like the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Xenon HID headlights, side airbags, and more. These technologies were later adopted by other automakers through a licensing agreement with Mercedes-Benz.

The 600 variant of the W160 was equipped with an M120 engine, a naturally aspirated beast of an engine that boasts 389 horsepower thanks to its 6.0-liter capacity and 12 cylinders. Because of this, the W140 is still a highly sought-after vehicle to this day.

Another thing that set this generation apart was its thoughtful design. Side mirrors could be adjusted without lowering the window. Drivers could adjust their driving position by inflating or deflating seat cushions. The windshield wipers also had sensors that allowed them to match the intensity and speed of rainfall. Configurations for your vehicle could be saved and loaded thanks to the smart computer’s memory system.

• Engine Specs: 6.0-liter V12
• Curb Weight: 4780 lbs
• Power: 394 hp @ 5,200 rpm
• Torque: 420 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 155 mph

Mercedes-Benz W126 1991

Last but certainly not least is the Mercedes-Benz W126, which comes as a four-door sedan or a two-door coupé. Much like the other models in the Mercedes-Benz S-class, the W126 boasts tremendous power relative to its time on top of excellent handling.

This vehicle has a boxier look than other S-class models, giving it a distinct and classy aesthetic. The fact that it comes with gorgeous leather seats is the cherry on top, but what truly makes the W126 so iconic is how safe and reliable it is.

Mercedes vehicles have always been known for their safety features, but the W126 handles very smoothly despite its size. It also comes equipped with airbags, a traction control system, crush zones, and even seat belt pretensioners to help keep drivers and their passengers safe.

• Engine Specs: 3.0-liter V6
• Curb Weight: 3417 lbs
• Power: 188hp @ 5,700 rpm
• Torque: 192 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 130 mph