1985 Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL (V126, facelift 1985) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL V126 facelift model varies between 1550 and 1830 kg (3417 to 4037 lbs), depending on configuration. The maximum permitted weight ranges from 1980 to 2290 kg (4365 to 5049 lbs). This relatively heavy weight for a sedan is indicative of the car's robust build quality, luxurious features, and long wheelbase stretched design. The weight contributes to a stable and smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections well, but also requires a powerful engine to maintain strong performance and responsive handling.

While the exact wheelbase is not specified here, the V126 S-class SEL models typically have a notably extended wheelbase offering more rear legroom. They come equipped with rims sized from 7J x 15 to 6.5J x 15 and tire sizes of 205/65 R15 or 215/65 R15. These tire and rim specs provide a balance between ride comfort and traction, suitable for luxury sedans aiming at smooth highway cruising and stable cornering. The relatively high-profile tires contribute to comfort by absorbing more road shocks.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL V126 facelift edition, with a maximum length of 5285 mm (208.1 inches or approximately 17.3 feet), width of 1820 mm (71.7 inches or 6 feet), and height up to 1446 mm (56.9 inches or 4.74 feet), will fit comfortably into most standard residential garages. Typical single car garages are about 6 meters by 3 meters (19.7 by 9.8 feet), so this car fits within these dimensions with enough clearance to open doors and walk around, although its length means it occupies most of the garage depth.

Compared to its predecessor, the W116 generation S-class, the V126 facelift variant of the S-class SEL introduced in 1985 is slightly larger in several key dimensions. The length increased up to 5285 mm vs roughly 5100 mm of the W116 SEL, offering more rear legroom and overall cabin space. The width remains close at 1820 mm, but refinements in height and weight brought a more aerodynamic profile and improved handling. These incremental increases made the V126 facelift more luxurious and spacious while maintaining typical Mercedes-Benz build quality.

The Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL (V126 facelift 1985) stands as one of the largest and most prestigious luxury sedans of its time. Compared to contemporaries like the BMW 7 Series (E32) or Audi V8, the V126 is generally longer and heavier, emphasizing rear passenger comfort with its extended wheelbase. While the BMW might have sportier handling dynamics, the S-class is renowned for its refined ride, safety features, and build quality. Dimensions reflect a car built for stately presence and plush accommodation rather than nimble sportiness.

The extended length of the Mercedes S-class SEL (V126 facelift) directly translates into increased legroom and comfort, especially for rear passengers. With lengths reaching up to 5285 mm (208.1 inches), the SEL variants are designed for luxury chauffeur-driven use, providing ample space for stretching out. This makes the rear seating area spacious enough for executive comfort, enhanced further by luxury appointments. The larger cabin volume boosts overall passenger comfort on long journeys.

While specific fuel tank capacity and luggage space figures vary slightly across different trims, the 1985-1992 Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL (V126 facelift) typically features a fuel tank capacity around 90 to 100 liters (about 24 to 26 US gallons), allowing for long drives without frequent refueling. The trunk space is sizeable due to the sedan’s extended length, providing ample cargo room ideal for luggage or business equipment, characteristic of a large luxury sedan designed to cater both to driver and passenger needs effectively.

The facelifted V126 S-class SEL introduced in 1985 brought refined suspension tuning aimed at enhancing ride comfort and handling. Improvements included upgraded shock absorbers and optional electronic damping control systems that improved the car’s ability to absorb road imperfections and stabilize its hefty mass during cornering. These enhancements resulted in a smoother and more composed ride quality compared to earlier models, adhering closely to Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for offering one of the most comfortable and refined large sedans of the era.

The Mercedes-Benz S-class SEL V126 facelift typically comes with rim sizes ranging from 7J x 15 to 6.5J x 15, fitted with tires sized 205/65 R15 or 215/65 R15. These tire sizes prioritize ride comfort and road grip, with higher sidewalls contributing to shock absorption on uneven surfaces. The combination ensures a stable and comfortable ride which is essential for a luxury sedan focused on plush driving experience. While not tuned for sporty handling, this setup delivers secure road manners and consistent traction in various driving conditions.