2006 Mercedes-Benz S 600

Stuttgart – Jun 20, 2005 – As in the preceding series, the new S-Class will introduce technical innovations which make the flagship Mercedes model an example for others to follow. Pioneering safety features and exemplary comfort continue to be the outstanding attributes of the S-Class. The new saloon also sets standards in driving dynamics with its agile handling, while offering even more driving pleasure with new, more powerful engines. The new S-Class is replacing a model series which is the world No. 1 in the luxury class, and of which around 485,000 have been produced since 1998.

The new flagship model by Mercedes-Benz is larger than its predecessor in every respect. There is a choice of two body lengths – 5076 or 5206 millimetres – which is 33 and 43 millimetres more, respectively, than the previous S-Class. The wheelbase has increased by 70/80 millimetres to 3035/3165 millimetres. In addition, the body is now 16 mm wider and 29 mm higher than previously. These new dimensions create the basis for an interior space concept which offers all the passengers first-class comfort.

For more than five decades, the letter S in the model designation of Mercedes cars has signified a special aura, intelligent technology and the highest quality. The new S-Class not only continues this tradition, but lends a new meaning to it. A dozen technical innovations are entering series production for the first time on board the new S-Class – from Brake Assist PLUS with radar sensors to dynamic multicontour seats with an extended massage function, from night view assist with the latest infra-red technology to the new COMAND system, and from anticipatory PRE-SAFE® occupant protection to the Active Body Control suspension system.

The running gear with its standard, improved air suspension system AIRMATIC likewise makes a major contribution to the high level of ride comfort in the new S-Class. Mercedes-Benz combines this with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS), which continuously regulates the shock absorber characteristics and takes the road conditions, driving style and vehicle load into account. The system adapts the damping forces for each individual wheel to the current situation within just 50 milliseconds.

The new top-of-the-line model in the S-Class will also be available from the first quarter of 2006. Thanks to an improved bi-turbo engine, the twelve-cylinder S 600 Saloon develops an output of 380 kW/517 hp – 12 kW/17 hp more than previously. Maximum torque has increased from 800 to 830 Newton metres, while fuel consumpption has decreased by 0.5 to 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The V12 engine accelerates the S-Class from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

The V6 and V8 models in the new S-Class are equipped as standard with the 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission, which is unique worldwide. A further innovation is DIRECT SELECT, an attractively styled steering-column selector lever which can be gently judged to operate the 7G-TRONIC.

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
engine	V12
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Twin Turbo
valvetrain	SOHC, 3 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed	Fuel Injection
displacement	5513 cc / 336.4 in³
bore	82 mm / 3.23 in
stroke	87 mm / 3.43 in
compression	9.0:1
power	385.5 kw / 517 bhp
specific output	93.78 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	237.16 bhp per tonne
torque	830 nm / 612.2 ft lbs @ 1900-3500 rpm
body / frame	Unit Steel
driven wheels	RWD
front tires	255/45 R 18
rear tires	275/45 R 18
front brakes	Inner Vented Discs w/ABS, Brake Assist, ESP
f brake size	mm / in
rear brakes	Inner Vented Discs w/ABS, Brake Assist, ESP
r brake size	mm / in
front wheels	F 45.7 x 21.6 cm / 18 x 8.5 in
rear wheels	R 45.7 x 24.1 cm / 18 x 9.5 in
steering	Rack & Pinion w/Speed Sensitive Assist
f suspension	Four-Link w/Active Body Control
r suspension	Multi-Link w/Active Body Control
curb weight	2180 kg / 4806 lbs
wheelbase	3165 mm / 124.6 in
front track	1600 mm / 63.0 in
rear track	1606 mm / 63.2 in
length	5206 mm / 205.0 in
width	1871 mm / 73.7 in
height	1473 mm / 58.0 in
transmission	5-Speed Automatic
gear ratios	3.60:1, 2.19:1, 1.41:1, 1.00:1, 0.83:1, :1
final drive	2.65:1
top speed	~250 kph / 155.3 mph
0 – 60 mph	~4.5 seconds