1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mercedes-Benz's top series switched from its decade-old platform to a new design for 1992: still rear-wheel drive but longer in wheelbase, slightly taller, and a lot heavier. Sedans came in two basic sizes: SE with a 119.7-inch wheelbase, and SEL measuring 123.7 inches. A new 228-horsepower, 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine went into the 300SE; the 400SE got a 282-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8; the 500SEL carried a 322-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8; and the new 600SEL held a 402-horsepower, 6.0-liter V12. All engines were dual-overhead-cam design with four valves per cylinder. A 4-speed automatic transmission was used, except for the 300SE, which got a new 5-speed automatic. Also available: a 300SD with a 3.5-liter turbodiesel engine. Speed-sensitive power steering was installed. Double-pane side windows had one-touch up/down power. Standard on the SEL models (optional on SE) were such items as traction control, an activated-charcoal ventilation system, power rear seat, heated front seats, and rear self leveling. An automatic-adjusting suspension went into the 600SEL, along with separate rear air conditioning, an electric rear-window sunshade, CD changer, and cellular phone. Rivals included the BMW 7-Series, Jaguar XJ sedan, and Lexus LS 400.