1991 Mercedes-Benz S-class (W140) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz S-class (W140) varies between 1890 kg and 2180 kg (4167 to 4806 lbs), depending on the specific variant and equipment level. Its maximum allowable weight ranges from 2410 kg to 2710 kg (5315 to 5975 lbs). This substantial weight reflects the car's robust build quality, extensive safety features, and luxury amenities, which contribute to a solid and reassuring driving experience.

The luggage capacity of the W140 S-class is spacious, ranging between 525 and 535 liters (18.5 to 18.9 cubic feet). This generous boot space makes it very practical for daily use, long trips, and transporting sizable amounts of luggage or shopping. The large trunk is easily accessible and accommodates suitcases, golf bags, and other bulky items with ease, maintaining the luxury sedan's reputation for combining comfort with utility.

The W140 S-class is a large luxury sedan with a length of 5113 mm (201.3 inches) and width of 1886 mm (74.3 inches). Standard single-car garages typically have a width of about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (94.5 to 106.3 inches) and length around 5 to 6 meters (197 to 236 inches). While the W140 fits within these dimensions, parking can be tight in narrower garages, especially when allowing room for doors to open comfortably. It's advisable to measure your garage before parking the W140 to ensure an easy fit without risk of door or bumper damage.

The exterior height of the Mercedes-Benz W140 varies slightly from 1485 mm to 1495 mm (58.5 to 58.9 inches), depending on suspension settings and model variants. This variation has minimal impact on interior headroom, as the cabin design efficiently maximizes passenger space. The S-class is engineered to offer generous headroom for front and rear occupants, ensuring comfort even for taller passengers. An adjustable suspension in some models may slightly affect ride height, but interior ergonomics remain spacious and accommodating.

The Mercedes-Benz S-class (W140) typically comes equipped with 16-inch rims sized 7.5J x 16. The standard tire size paired with these rims is 235/60 R16. These dimensions provide a balance of ride comfort, handling stability, and road grip. The relatively tall sidewall tire profile (60 aspect ratio) helps absorb road imperfections, contributing to the S-class's renowned smooth ride quality, while supporting the car's substantial weight and luxury driving experience.

Compared to its predecessor, the W126 S-class, the W140 model is notably larger in nearly every dimension. The W126 measured approximately 5005 mm (197.1 inches) in length, whereas the W140 extends to 5113 mm (201.3 inches). The width also increased from about 1820 mm (71.7 inches) to 1886 mm (74.3 inches), and there was a slight gain in height as well. This growth translated into more interior space, improved safety features, and increased road presence. The W140 emphasized luxury and technological advancements to a greater extent, making it heavier and roomier than the refined W126.

Among its contemporaries, such as the BMW 7 Series (E32) and the Audi V8, the W140 S-class stands out for its substantial size and weight. With a length of 5113 mm (201.3 inches) and curb weight reaching up to 2180 kg (4806 lbs), the W140 is typically larger and heavier than most rivals. This reflects Mercedes-Benz's philosophy of emphasizing safety, build quality, and interior space. While competitors often focused more on sportiness or performance, the W140 prioritized solid construction and comfort, leading to a commanding presence and a weighted, stable ride.

The maximum roof load capacity for the Mercedes-Benz S-class (W140) is 100 kg (220 lbs). This means the roof can safely carry this amount of weight, which is important if adding roof racks or carrying luggage, bicycles, or sporting equipment on top. While the S-class sedan is not primarily designed as a utility vehicle, this load capacity adds some versatility for owners needing extra cargo space outside the trunk, especially on long trips.

The Mercedes-Benz S-class (W140) was pioneering in introducing several advanced features for its time. It included double-pane window glazing for improved sound insulation, an electronically controlled multi-link rear suspension for enhanced ride comfort, and one of the earliest electronic stability programs (ESP). The W140 also introduced side airbags and a self-closing boot lid, setting new standards for safety and convenience in luxury sedans. These innovations reinforced the S-class's role as a technological benchmark in the automotive industry during the early 1990s.