MERCEDES-BENZ, The 1970s, W116: From the 280S to the 450SEL 6.9 and Tuners

MERCEDES-BENZ W116
Updated 2025 Edition
Complete Model History, Engineering and a Detailed 30+ Page Buyer's Guide
LARGE-FORMAT - FULL COLOR - MORE THAN 150 RECENT PHOTOGRAPHS
A well-maintained Mercedes W116 offers exceptional comfort, engineering quality and classic S-Class character. An attractive-looking example, however, may conceal serious corrosion, neglected mechanical systems or expensive problems involving its suspension, air conditioning and electrical equipment. This book explains the areas that owners and prospective buyers should examine before making a purchase.
Introduced in 1972, the W116 was the first model series officially designated as the S-Class. Its understated design, long-distance comfort and advanced safety engineering established new standards for luxury automobiles of the 1970s.

The book covers:

• WHAT TO INSPECT BEFORE PURCHASE: Bodywork, corrosion, previous repairs, engines, transmissions, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, air conditioning, interior, originality and service history.
• COMPLETE MODEL HISTORY: From the 280S, 280SE and rare 280SEL to the 350SE/SEL, 450SE/SEL, North American 300SD and flagship 450SEL 6.9.
• ENGINES AND ENGINEERING: Six-cylinder, V8 and five-cylinder diesel engines, manual and automatic transmissions, suspension, steering and braking systems.
• 450SEL 6.9, SAFETY AND ABS: The M100 V8, hydropneumatic suspension, the W116 safety concept and the introduction of electronically controlled anti-lock braking.
• IDENTIFICATION AND ORIGINALITY: VIN decoding, data cards, production figures, technical specifications, paint and interior options, factory equipment and year-by-year changes.

More than 150 recent color photographs illustrate the different models, interiors, technical details and important developments introduced during production.
Whether you are considering the purchase of a W116, already own one or simply appreciate classic Mercedes-Benz engineering, this carefully researched reference provides the historical background, technical knowledge and practical guidance needed to understand this important S-Class generation.
Bernd S. Koehling has been involved with classic Mercedes-Benz automobiles since the 1970s and is the author of more than 20 books on the marque.
Additional photographs and sample pages from the book appear farther down this product page.