Since its inception, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineage has consistently redefined automotive excellence, setting benchmarks for engineering and innovation. The journey of the S-Class and its predecessors is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering unparalleled luxury and technology. For decades, the S-Class has not just been a car; it has been a symbol of automotive progress.
Mercedes-Benz has always envisioned the S-Class as the pinnacle of automotive thought, where engineers relentlessly pursue human-centric innovations. This philosophy seamlessly blends opulent design with intelligent functionality, meticulously crafted in every detail. This prestigious line of flagship models has been in continuous evolution since 1951, officially adopting the S-Class designation in 1972. Each S-Class generation has left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Let’s explore the milestones of innovation across the S-Class generations and their forerunners.
Innovation Milestones: S-Class and Predecessor Models, from 1951
Mercedes-Benz 220 (W 187, 1951 – 1954)
- Pioneering six-cylinder engine featuring an overhead camshaft.
- Conical-pin safety door lock: A groundbreaking safety innovation designed to prevent doors from opening during accidents, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s early commitment to passenger safety.
Mercedes-Benz 219/220/220 S/220 SE (W 105/W 180/W 128, 1954 – 1959)
- Introduction of the self-supporting bodyshell, enhancing vehicle rigidity and safety.
- Enhanced brake drums with “turbocooling” for improved braking performance.
- Mechanically controlled manifold fuel injection featured in the 220 SE from 1958, boosting engine efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz 220 to 300 SE (W 111/W 112, 1959 – 1965)
- Famously known as the “Fintail” models, distinguished by subtle fins on the rear fenders, originally designed as “guide rods” for parking assistance.
- Passenger safety cell with crumple zones: A revolutionary safety advancement, incorporating crumple zones at the front and rear to absorb impact energy and protect occupants. This was the first time such a safety cell was integrated into a production car.
- Padded steering wheel and “injury-reducing vehicle interior”, further enhancing passenger safety.
- Disc brakes introduced on the 300 SE from 1961, providing superior stopping power.
- Air suspension, also on the 300 SE from 1961, delivering a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Central locking offered as optional equipment on the long-wheelbase 300 SE, adding convenience and security.
Mercedes-Benz 250 S to 300 SEL 6.3 (W 108/W 109, 1965 – 1972)
- Hydropneumatic compensating springs at the rear axle for improved ride comfort and handling.
- The range-topping 300 SEL 6.3 boasted a powerful 250 hp (184 kW) large-displacement V8 engine, delivering sports-car performance within a luxury sedan.
116 model series Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1972 – 1980)
- Officially designated the “S-Class” for the first time, marking a new era in luxury automobiles.
- Fuel tank positioned over the rear axle for enhanced collision protection.
- Dirt-resistant rear lights and side windows, improving visibility and reducing maintenance.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) introduced as optional equipment from 1978. This pioneering system allowed drivers to maintain steering control during emergency braking. By 1980, ABS became standard across all Mercedes-Benz model series, showcasing its impact on automotive safety.
- Cruise control became optional equipment from 1975, enhancing driving convenience on long journeys.
- Became the first production car to feature a turbocharged diesel engine, highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s engine innovation.
126 model series Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1979 – 1992)
- Electrically adjustable steering column as optional equipment from 1985, enhancing driver comfort and ergonomics.
- Driver airbag and belt tensioner for the front passenger, optional from 1981. The 126 series was at the forefront of occupant safety with these features. Driver-side airbags became standard in all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars by October 1992.
- Front passenger airbag offered as optional equipment from 1988, further improving passenger safety.
- ASR acceleration skid control became optional for V8 models from 1985, improving vehicle stability and control.
140 model series Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1991 – 1998)
- Low drag coefficient of Cd= 0.31, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wind noise.
- First Mercedes-Benz production car with a twelve-cylinder engine, the most powerful engine in the brand’s history at the time (600 SE, 600 SEL).
- Double-glazed side windows for superior noise insulation, enhancing cabin comfort.
- Power closing for doors and trunk lid as optional equipment, adding convenience and luxury.
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) became standard on the S 600 from 1995 and optional on S 420 and S 500 from 1995. Mercedes-Benz pioneered handling safety systems, with ESP building on ABS and ASR technology to selectively brake wheels, preventing skidding and maintaining vehicle control.
- BAS Brake Assist System from 1996, automatically maximizing braking force in emergency situations to reduce stopping distances.
- PARKTRONIC electronic parking aid on S 600 from 1995, or optional, using ultrasonic sensors to assist with parking and maneuvering.
- CAN-based (Controller Area Network) multiplex wiring system, simplifying vehicle electronics and improving reliability.
- APS Auto Pilot System navigation system as optional equipment from 1995, integrating advanced navigation technology.
- LINGUATRONIC voice control system optional from 1996, the first voice-activated carphone system in series production, pioneering in-car voice control.
- Xenon headlamps with dynamic headlamp range control as optional equipment from 1996, improving nighttime visibility and safety.
220 model series Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1998 – 2005)
- Further reduced drag coefficient of Cd= 0.27, enhancing aerodynamics.
- Automatic cylinder shutoff (S 600) for improved fuel economy.
- Electronically controlled seven-speed automatic transmission introduced in 2004, enhancing driving smoothness and efficiency – a key feature for the Mercedes Benz 2005 S Class models.
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as an option, pioneering adaptive cruise control technology.
- KEYLESS GO keyless access and drive authorization system as optional equipment, enhancing convenience.
- PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system launched in 2002, anticipating accidents and preparing the vehicle for impact.
- First official S-Class AMG model in the range (S 55 AMG, 265 kW/360 hp from 1999, and a supercharged version with 368 kW/500 hp from 2002) bringing high-performance to the luxury segment.
- S 65 AMG with 450 kW (612 hp) and 738 lb-ft of torque from 2003, setting new standards for power in a luxury sedan.
- 4MATIC all-wheel drive as optional equipment from 2002, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
The Mercedes Benz 2005 S Class, part of the W220 series, represented the culmination of these innovations and more, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Specifically, the 2005 model year benefitted from the introduction of the 7-speed automatic transmission across more models, further refining the driving experience. Features like DISTRONIC and PRE-SAFE®, available in the mercedes benz 2005 s class, underscored Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety and driver assistance, making it a leader in its segment.
221 model series Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2005 – 2013)
- Drag coefficient further improved to Cd= 0.26.
- Enhanced Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC PLUS (with braking to standstill) as optional, advancing adaptive cruise control.
- PRE-SAFE® Brake with autonomous partial braking (from 2006) and autonomous emergency braking (from 2009) as optional equipment, moving towards autonomous safety systems.
- Panoramic tilting/sliding roof as optional equipment, enhancing the open-air experience.
- Active Night View Assist as optional equipment, improving nighttime driving visibility.
- Lane Keeping Assist as optional (from 2009, Active Lane Keeping Assist from 2010), driver assistance for lane maintenance.
- Hybrid drive and lithium-ion battery on S 400 HYBRID from 2009, pioneering hybrid technology in the luxury segment.
222 model series Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2013 – 2020)
- “Intelligent Drive” featuring new and enhanced assistance systems, pushing the boundaries of driver assistance.
- Body with third-generation aluminum hybrid bodyshell, significantly improving torsional rigidity while reducing weight.
- First car entirely without traditional bulbs, utilizing almost 500 LEDs for interior and exterior lighting, showcasing advanced lighting technology.
- ROAD SURFACE SCAN technology enabling the S-Class to detect potholes and MAGIC BODY CONTROL adapting suspension accordingly, enhancing ride comfort proactively.
- New wellness systems, including ENERGIZING massage with hot-stone principle and active seat ventilation. ENERGIZING comfort control from September 2017 integrating various vehicle systems for personalized well-being settings.
- Mercedes-Maybach S-Class introduced in 2014, topping the 222 series with extended wheelbase and ultra-luxury appointments.
223 model series, the New Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2020 – Present Day)
- Second generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) debuts, featuring up to five screens with OLED technology and a 3D driver display with eye-tracking.
- Active ambient lighting with around 250 LEDs integrated into driving assistance systems for visual warnings.
- World’s first series production available rear seat airbag, enhancing rear passenger safety in frontal collisions.
- Optional rear-axle steering, making the S-Class as maneuverable as a compact car in urban environments.
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates for more than 50 electronic components, ensuring continuous improvement and feature upgrades.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, including the distinguished mercedes benz 2005 s class, stands as a beacon of automotive innovation and luxury. From pioneering safety features to groundbreaking technology and unparalleled comfort, the S-Class legacy is one of continuous advancement. Each generation builds upon the last, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive world and reaffirming the S-Class as the ultimate symbol of automotive excellence.
More information on Classic S-Class generations can be found via our online archives, link.
