Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan · S-Class

W126

The S-Class that set the template for decades.

Production: 1979–1991
Built: 490,905
Body: Sedan
Chassis: W126

The W126 S-Class refined the formula the W116 established — a lighter, more aerodynamic flagship that dominated the luxury saloon market through the 1980s with engineering restraint and unmistakable presence.

Six-cylinder 260 SE and 300 SE models served the entry luxury buyer, while 380 SE, 420 SE, 500 SE, and 560 SE V8s covered the upper range. The 300 SD turbo diesel brought oil-burning S-Class motoring to America, and the SEC coupé on C126 shared the same platform with pillarless glamour. Anti-lock brakes, airbags, and improved corrosion protection made the W126 the S-Class many owners still consider the high-water mark.

Production over 1979–1991 came to 490,905 cars.

W126 interior — Cabin details of the W126, as preserved in period photography.

Every model.

13 model designations across 1979–1991 — engines, chassis codes and production figures for the W126.

Model	Model years	Chassis	Engine	Total
300 SD Turbodiesel	1981–1985	126.120	617.951	78,725
260 SE	1986–1991	126.020	103.941	20,836
280 S	1980–1981	126.021	110.924	42,996
280 S	1982–1985	126.021	110.926	included above
280 SE	1980–1981	126.022	110.987	133,955
280 SE	1982–1985	126.022	110.989	included above
300 SE	1986–1991	126.024	103.981	105,422
380 SE	1982–1985	126.032	116.963	included above
420 SE	1986–1991	126.034	116.965	13,996
500 SE	1980–1981	126.036	117.961	33,418
500 SE	1982–1985	126.036	117.963	included above
500 SE	1986–1991	126.036	117.965	included above
560 SE	1988–1991	126.038	117.968	1,252

* The published production figure covers every series of that model; the source does not break it down further.

Studio profile of the W126 — the proportions that defined this chassis.

W126 rear three-quarter view — Rear three-quarter view of the W126.

Engines.

The M110 and M116 as fitted to the W126.

M110

Inline-6

110.9242.7 L · 2,746 cc
156 PS
115 kW · 154 hp at 5,500 rpm
223 N·m
164 lb·ft at 4,000 rpm
110.9262.7 L · 2,746 cc
156 PS
115 kW · 154 hp at 5,500 rpm
223 N·m
164 lb·ft at 4,000 rpm
110.9872.7 L · 2,746 cc
185 PS
136 kW · 182 hp at 5,800 rpm
240 N·m
177 lb·ft at 4,500 rpm
110.9892.7 L · 2,746 cc
185 PS
136 kW · 182 hp at 5,800 rpm
240 N·m
177 lb·ft at 4,500 rpm

M116

116.9613.8 L · 3,818 cc
218 PS
160 kW · 215 hp at 5,500 rpm
299 N·m
221 lb·ft at 4,000 rpm
116.9633.8 L · 3,818 cc
218 PS
160 kW · 215 hp at 5,500 rpm
299 N·m
221 lb·ft at 4,000 rpm
116.9654.2 L · 4,196 cc
218 PS
160 kW · 215 hp at 5,200 rpm
330 N·m
243 lb·ft at 4,000 rpm