Engine
Type : 5.0L 302 hp V8
Displacement cu in (cc) : 4966
Power bhp (kW) at RPM : 302 @ 5600 RPM
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM : 339 @ 2700 RPM
Redline at RPM : n.a.
Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s : n.a.
Top Speed mph (km/h) : n.a.
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km) : 16/22 - 24
2006 Mercedes-Benz S-500 with long wheelbase Photo Gallery
The S-Class is Mercedes' flagship sedan. The current generation, introduced in 2000, brought sleeker styling, more advanced technology and greater performance than the heavier versions that preceded it. Two models were available initially, the S430 and S500 sedans, with V8 engines of 4.3 liters (275 horsepower) and 5.0 liters (302 horses), respectively.
Lighter and less expensive than the robust Benz sedans that preceded it, the 2000 S-Class earned praise for its sleek body, exceptional comfort and performance that belied its size. However, it was criticized for overly complex controls, especially the standard COMAND system that operated the navigation and audio systems. Soon after, two more S-Class sedans joined the lineup, the top-dog S600 (with its 362-hp, 5.8-liter V12) and the AMG-tweaked S55 (which had a 5.4-liter, 355-horse V8), making sure both the ultraluxury and ultraluxury/sport sedan markets were covered. For 2003, Mercedes made a number of significant advances in performance and safety.
Responding to the ever-rising performance bar in this class, Mercedes installed a new, more powerful 493-hp V12 in the top-of-the-line S600 and added a supercharger to the S55, also yielding 493 horses albeit less torque. (If that's still not enough for you, Mercedes has slotted an even more powerful S65 AMG model into the lineup for 2006.) Practical technology comes in the form of all-wheel drive, dubbed 4Matic, which is available on the S430 and S500 models. Ideal for those who live in rainy or snowy climates, 4Matic automatically directs power to whichever wheel(s) have the best grip.
And at the forefront of safety is the Pre-Safe system, which can sense an imminent accident and automatically tighten the seatbelts and position the power seats to afford the best protection for the occupants. For those who don't need the ultimate in power for their large sedan, Mercedes-Benz introduced the S350 for 2006. This S is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 with 241 hp. Regardless of engine choice, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is still one of the top sedans in its class and certainly the winner when it comes to curbside prestige.
NEW ! Mercedes-Benz S-500 with long wheelbase videos
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