For many people, the Mercedes-Benz W126 is an iconic car that redefined luxury with its sleek design and powerful performance. This iconic vehicle premiered in September 1979 as the successor to the earlier W116 line, and it was the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz flagship to officially bear the S-Class title. But what made this such a defining moment in automotive history? Let’s take a closer look at how this car came to be.
The 'Efficient Energy' Concept
The development of the Mercedes-Benz W126 was done under a new concept called ‘Efficient Energy’. The goal of this concept was to reduce fuel consumption by at least 10% over its predecessor, which meant that there had to be some major changes made in order for it to achieve this goal. To reduce weight, extensive use of new alloy body panels and engine components were implemented. In addition, extensive time was spent in wind tunnels reshaping surfaces and reducing aerodynamic drag.
Range of Engines & Crowning Glory
The W126 S-Class was available in a range of engines, but its crowning glory was undoubtedly the 560 SEL of 1985. This palace on wheels made use of a 272 horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine that allowed it to reach 62mph from zero in just 6.9 seconds – making it one of the fastest cars on the road at that time! It also featured independent suspension all round with twin wishbone arms up front and semi-trailing arms out back – giving it superior cornering capabilities even when pushed hard around corners. On top of that, its plush leather upholstery and air conditioning system provided passengers with ultimate comfort throughout their journey.
It’s no wonder why so many people regard the Mercedes-Benz W126 as an icon; not only did it redefine luxury vehicles but also set a new standard for performance and handling on roads around the world. Its timeless design has been enjoyed by generations since its release over 40 years ago – proving that sometimes old school technology can still hold up against modern day standards! Whether you’re looking for a classic ride or something more modern, you can count on Mercedes-Benz to provide excellence every time you get behind the wheel!
