S-W140

In 1991, the W140 series replaced the W126 line in the Mercedes-Benz line-up, the first production model rolling off the assembly line on August 6 of that year. As with its predecessor, the W140 launched the "next generation" of Mercedes-Benz design language. The W140 saw the S-Class grow in its proportions; more technology and features were added due to product evolution and through competition. The car was available in two wheelbase lengths and a shorter-wheelbase W140 coupé. Production totalled 432,732 units; down on volumes for the W126 reflecting its shorter production period, competitive pressure (especially Lexus in the US) and higher market positioning.

A W140 S-class was the car in which Princess Diana died when her chauffeur (the only survivor of the four occupants was her security guard, who was located in the front passenger seat) crashed into a Parisian concrete pillar in August 1997.

 

The W140 cost 25% more than the preceding W126. There was new pressure from competitors such as Lexus and Infiniti in the US. Specification and options increased in this period as the Mercedes Benz evolved the model to remain competitive.

The W140 introduced innovations such as double-pane window glazing, self-closing boot lid and doors, electric windows with a jam-protection feature (lowering back down when encountering an obstruction), rear-parking markers in the US (which appeared on the rear wings when in reverse), and a heating system which emitted warm air while residual energy was available after the engine was turned off.

 

In 1993, Mercedes-Benz model nomenclature was rationalized, with the SE/SEL/SEC cars becoming the S-Class and alphanumerical designations inverted (e.g. the both 500SE and 500SEL became S500 regardless of wheelbase length). In 1995, the W140 received a minor facelift. The clear turn signal indicator lenses on the front and rear were the most obvious changes. Headlamps were fitted with separate low- and high-beam reflectors for the US. Following the mid-year facelift, the W140 coupé and sedan (Saloon) were each fitted with Electronic Stability Control. The W140 was to feature an air suspension as an option, but Mercedes-Benz was still perfecting the technology and chose to launch air suspension as an option in the next generation S-Class in late 1999.