1981 Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1981 Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) ranges between 1585 kg and 1610 kg (approximately 3496 to 3548 pounds). The maximum permissible weight, which includes the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and fuel, ranges from 2105 kg to 2130 kg (around 4643 to 4696 pounds). This considerable weight reflects the car's solid build quality, extensive safety features, and luxurious materials typical of the Mercedes-Benz flagship coupe of its time.

With a width of 1828 mm (71.9 inches), the Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) is slightly wider than many compact cars, but still falls within the range that can comfortably fit in a standard garage. Typical single-car garage doors are approximately 2.4 to 2.7 meters wide (94.5 to 106 inches), providing enough clearance for a safe entry and exit. Therefore, owners of a C126 coupe can generally park this vehicle in a typical residential garage without issues, although care should be taken when maneuvering due to its relatively broad stance.

Compared to its predecessor, the C107 S-class coupe, the 1981 Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) brought several size updates. The C126 increased in length to 4910 mm (193.3 inches), providing more interior space and road presence. Width at 1828 mm (71.9 inches) also saw a subtle increase, enhancing stability and interior comfort. The height was optimized for better aerodynamics at 1406 mm (55.3 inches). This growth in dimensions reflected Mercedes-Benz's intent to enhance luxury and road comfort while retaining the sleek coupe profile. Overall, the C126 is more spacious and refined than the C107 generation.

When compared to contemporaries like the BMW 6 Series (E24) and the Jaguar XJ-S of the early 1980s, the Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) is generally larger and heavier. With a length of 4910 mm (193.3 inches) and a curb weight up to 1610 kg (3548 lbs), it offers more spaciousness and a robust presence. The BMW E24 coupe typically measured slightly shorter and lighter, focusing more on sporty dynamics, whereas the Jaguar XJ-S was comparable in length but lighter overall. The C126’s emphasis was on luxury, safety, and comfort, making it among the larger, more substantial coupes of the time.

The Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) from 1981 comes fitted with 14-inch rims sized 6.5J x 14. Paired with these are tires sized 205/70 R14, which provide a comfortable balance between ride quality and handling capabilities. These tire sizes complement the vehicle’s dimensions and weight, offering stability and sufficient grip for the luxury coupe’s intended smooth and composed driving experience.

Standing at 1406 mm (55.3 inches) tall, the 1981 S-class Coupe (C126) has a relatively low profile that enhances its aerodynamic efficiency compared to taller vehicles. This height contributes to lower wind resistance, improving fuel economy and high-speed stability. From an interior perspective, despite the low height, Mercedes-Benz utilized smart design to optimize cabin space, ensuring adequate headroom for both front and rear passengers, characteristic of a luxury coupe where comfort is paramount.

At 4910 mm (193.3 inches) long, the Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) is notably lengthy, even when compared to other Mercedes models of the early 1980s. The sedan versions of the S-class from this era were slightly longer due to the four-door configuration, but the coupe’s length was impressive for a two-door vehicle, contributing to its grand touring character and generous interior space. This length reinforces its status as a flagship luxury coupe, balancing elegance and commanding presence.

The curb weight of the C126 S-class coupe ranges between 1585 kg and 1610 kg (3496 to 3548 lbs). This weight reflects the car's solid construction, luxury amenities, and safety features like reinforced chassis and sound insulation. While the relatively heavier weight enhances ride comfort and stability at high speeds, it slightly impacts fuel economy and agility. Drivers can expect a smooth, composed ride rather than a sporty, nimble handling dynamic typical of lighter coupes.

To comfortably park a 1981 Mercedes-Benz S-class Coupe (C126) in a garage, the space should accommodate its length of 4910 mm (193.3 inches) and width of 1828 mm (71.9 inches). Standard single-car garages generally measure about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (94.5 to 106 inches) wide and 5.5 to 6 meters (216.5 to 236 inches) long, which is sufficient for the C126 coupe. However, it’s advisable to have some additional clearance space for ease of entry and exit, especially considering the vehicle's wider stance.