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Modern classics: the Coupés of the Mercedes-Benz 126 series (1981 to 1991)

• Still attractive and desirable
• Innovation studies of their day
• High value retention as modern classics

Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz Coupés have always embodied elegance on four wheels. And exclusivity besides, since the vehicles attract a clientele that consciously opts for a body form with flowing lines, the classic two doors and who to a certain extent see their vehicle as a logical extension of a lifestyle often characterised by beauty and elegance.

These fundamentals also applied to the SEC Coupés of the C 126 series, which Mercedes-Benz presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September 1981. They were based on the S-Class Saloon of the 126 series, with a frame/floor assembly shortened by 85 millimetres. Nevertheless, the Coupés were fully-fledged four-seaters.

Their design rendered them unmistakable: Bruno Sacco, then Head of Design, gave the vehicles the perfect lines of the day and also integrated them harmoniously into the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range. For example, he revived the horizontal radiator grille with large central star which had been a feature of the large Mercedes-Benz Coupés and the legendary 300 SL Gullwing Coupé since the 1950s. All things considered, the Coupés of the C 126 series were a tour de force in terms of design, retaining even today an air of timeless elegance and desirability.

The elegant looks of the Coupés were coupled with exclusive equipment, powerful engines and optimum safety – resulting in an experience that offered comfort from every facet of automotive design. Even the longest journeys could be effortlessly undertaken in the Coupé, thanks to its sophisticated chassis – which apart from a few details was identical to that of the S-Class – the ergonomically designed and elegant interior and the drive system. The Coupés were available exclusively with eight-cylinder engines. Initially there were two models, the 380 SEC and 500 SEC. The model refinement package in 1985 saw the 380 SEC superseded by the 420 SEC, as well as the arrival of a modified version of 500 SEC and – the most spectacular newcomer – the 560 SEC. The model refinement package also saw the introduction of emission control systems with a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter.

In terms of safety technology the Coupés of the C 126 series were state-of-the-art. The body was designed in line with latest safety research findings. One noteworthy equipment detail was the electrically operated belt feeder, which was a standard-fit specification on the SEC models. Optionally available were also an airbag for the driver and belt tensioner for the front passenger. The front passenger airbag was available from 1985. Optimum active driving safety was guaranteed by systems such as the automatic locking differential (ASD) or acceleration skid control (ASR).

Value retention as opposed to depreciation

The range of Coupés sporting the desirable SEC abbreviation in the model designation is extensive. Although most of them are by now older vehicles, it is not unusual to fine well maintained examples. Moreover, high mileages are no problem for the regularly maintained eight-cylinder engines.

But there are also vehicles available with a manufacturer’s warranty: Mercedes-Benz Young Classics regularly offers vehicles in above average condition and which are therefore supplied with a warranty – an offer unique in the automotive industry.

Those who today drive a Coupé of the C 126 series as a modern classic are sure to appreciate aspects such as its outstanding everyday practicality, high level of ride comfort, elegant appearance and exclusivity. An additional bonus is that with correct maintenance and good care it will at least retain its value and eliminate depreciation. In many cases, the value of the vehicle even rises over time.

Mercedes-Benz’s excellent spare parts supply has helped maintain a modern classic: almost every part can be procured through a Mercedes-Benz dealer and the company’s own ordering system; delivery is usually made overnight. Some authorised service shops have even been designated Classic Partners, possessing outstanding competence in handling older vehicles. Not for nothing does the slogan “Service for a lifetime” apply to all vehicles of the brand.

Production of the Coupés of the C 126 series was stopped in 1991, almost exactly ten years after the market launch. The total volume of 74,060 units built gives an impression of the model family’s high popularity. The best-selling model was the 500 SEC with 30,184 units.

Clearly the rarest version was the 420 SEC with just 3,680 units. Regardless of engine type, each individual vehicle is a legend of its time.

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Modern classics: the Cabriolets of the Mercedes-Benz 124 series (1991 to 1997)

• Classics during their own production period

• Proven technology from the Saloons and Estates of the series

• Mercedes-Benz E 36 AMG is the top-of-the-range model

In 1991 Mercedes-Benz breathed new life into an old tradition: after an interruption of exactly 20 years, the brand returned to the market with a four-seater cabriolet, developed as a derivative of the intermediate class 124 series saloon. The debut vehicle was the 300 CE-24 Cabriolet, which was built until 1993. Its immediate successor was the E 320 Cabriolet, but then came also the E 200 Cabriolet and

E 220 Cabriolet models, as well as the E 36 AMG Cabriolet as an exclusive highlight. Each of these were to become classics in their own right during their production period. What is more, they each had the potential to become genuine pieces of automotive history, since their production period – until 1997 – was relatively brief and total unit numbers amounted to just 33,952 examples in all.

The engineering in the Cabriolets came from the series’ four-door counterpart. Features that demonstrated the company’s innovative strength included, for example, the eccentric-sweep panoramic windscreen wiper, which offered the largest swept-area of any passenger car, as well as multi-link independent rear suspension and shock absorber strut independent front suspension located by individual wishbones. The braking system was also borrowed without modification from the Saloons.

The body of the Cabriolet took after the Coupé, presented in 1986. Both of these were rather shorter than the Saloon. Other stylistic features included the slightly flatter front and rear screens, an absence of B-pillars and just two doors. Nevertheless, conversion to the open-topped vehicle was extremely complex: in order to meet customary Mercedes-Benz levels of safety and quality the Cabriolet had to be fitted with numerous modified or redesigned structural components – approximately 1000 all-new design elements in total. In addition, the engineers designed a sophisticated protection system in the event of a rollover accident. This involved an extendable/retractable sensor-controlled linear rollover bar behind the rear passengers, which deployed automatically within 0.3 seconds in the event of a rollover accident. The A-pillars were also reinforced. The sum of all these measures brought the Cabriolet of the A 124 series – to give the model its precise in-house designation – to the same protection level as its closed counterpart.

The padded soft top and heated rear windscreen made of safety glass made the vehicle practical for year-round use. When the roof was open, it was stowed completely in a compartment behind the rear seats, hidden by a fixed cover plate and leaving nothing above the body line to disturb its elegant cabriolet form. In open-topped mode, in particular, the vehicle exuded classical beauty.

In terms of comfort, the Cabriolet offered all the advantages of the other models in the series, making for high-class travel whether in urban traffic or on long-distance hauls. At the same time, the brand’s definition of comfort was exceptionally comprehensive, going beyond simply physical well-being. A good example was the low level of noise afforded by the Cabriolet of the 124 series with closed roof. Although this was clearly slightly higher than in the Saloons, the padded soft top and tight-fitting joints ensured that noise levels were kept below a maximum level; on the one hand, this came as a welcome relief to passengers, on the other, it was much less tiring on drivers over lengthy periods on the road. The Cabriolet also featured an electric belt feeder, which automatically presented the seat belt comfortably to driver and front passenger once they were seated. This equipment feature was also as much about safety as comfort, since it served to simplify the task of fastening the seat belt.

The fact that the Cabriolets of the 124 series achieved classic status during their own production period is now of great benefit in today’s market. Since they were always considered special vehicles, and often used as second cars, the condition in which vehicles are offered for sale today is generally high and actual mileages often low. For anyone interested in a Cabriolet of the 124 series as a modern classic, therefore, the quality of vehicles is basically sound – nevertheless it is essential to take a close look in individual cases.

There are also vehicles that come with a manufacturer’s warranty, however.

Mercedes-Benz Young Classics regularly has Cabriolets in above-average condition and which are therefore supplied with a warranty – an offer unique in the automotive industry.

Regardless of the modern classic’s origins, however, the exceptional Mercedes-Benz original parts supply is sure to help with maintenance. For virtually every part can be procured via a Mercedes-Benz partner and the company’s own ordering system; delivery is usually made overnight. Some authorised service shops – those with outstanding competence in handling older vehicles – have even been designated Classic Partners. In addition, all Mercedes-Benz sales and service outlets continue to provide a high level of technical expertise. Not for nothing does the slogan “Service for a lifetime” apply to all vehicles of the brand.

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While we’re waiting for the new issue of the German publication sport auto (mainly for the comparison between the Audi RS5 and the BMW M3), Mercedes celebrates their victory in the sport auto readers’ poll. 17.2 percent of readers’ votes in the category “super sports” went to the Mecedes-Benz SLS AMG and made for a dominant win. Congrats Mercedes-Benz, well deserved!

Press release:

SLS AMG wins readers’ poll

“The sportiest cars of 2010”

Affalterbach – Victory for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG over some strong competition. In the “Sportiest cars of 2010” readers’ poll organised by the renowned car magazine sport auto, the gullwing model took the title in the “super sports” section.

With no less than 17.2 percent of the votes cast, the SLS AMG left all the other super sports cars trailing in its wake. The win – over 13 competitors from Germany, Italy, Japan, Great Britain, the USA, Sweden and France – underlines just how popular the SLS AMG is amongst the readers.

The very best series-production and performance-tuned vehicles compete against each other on an annual basis in the sport auto readers’ poll; taking part this year were 260 vehicles in 25 categories. A total of 10,000 readers cast their vote. Not only did the super sports car from Mercedes-Benz win over the judges’ hearts –
it was also victorious when put to the test. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine with dry sump lubrication and 420 kW (571 hp) plus a torque of 650 newton
metres, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with a transaxle configuration – not to mention its athletic double-wishbone sports suspension – add up to a unique high-tech blend, ensuring driving dynamics of the highest calibre.

These were very much in evidence at the “super test”, too, which is very highly regarded amongst the sport auto readers and industry experts alike: a lap time of 7.40 minutes on the legendary Nordschleife of the Nürburgring is an impressive performance indeed. “Respect! The Mercedes sports brand AMG has put a
magnificent machine on the road” was the reaction following sport auto’s “super test”.

Since its world premiere at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in
Frankfurt/Main, the SLS AMG has already been showered with lots of major
awards:

• “Red Dot Design Award”
• “iF product design award 2010”
• Design Award 2010 (Auto Bild)
• Plus X Award
• “Golden Steering Wheel 2009” (Bild am Sonntag and Auto Bild)
• “The Best Cars”, super sports car category (auto motor und sport)
• “Auto Trophy 2009” and “Design Trophy” (Auto Zeitung)
• “TOPauto 2010” (Motor Information Service)
• “Best New Product 2009, International Motor Show in Frankfurt” (AutoScout24)
• “GT Car of the Year” (Top Gear, GB)
  • “Best Dream Machine” (MotorWeek TV’s Driver’s Choice Award, USA)

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The new generation R-Class was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in March. It features a completely redesigned front section and an enhanced version of the previous model year’s interior. The R-Class combines comfort, high-class appeal with the prestige of classic Mercedes-Benz luxury-class saloons.

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class: spacious, prestigious and exceptionally comfortable: Versatility at its best

Stuttgart – After a world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March this year and the positive feedback received there, Mercedes-Benz is convinced that it is on the right track with the new-generation R-Class. A completely redesigned front section in particular enhances the overall look of this model, with styling cues taken from Mercedes-Benz saloon and SUV models. The interior of the “twenty-ten” model year R-Class complements this fresh exterior, combining as it does the good use of space found in the latest MPV models with the comfort, high-class appeal and prestige of classic Mercedes-Benz luxury-class saloons. At the same time this latest generation retains the interior versatility of its predecessor, whilst also benefiting from the robustness and all-wheel drive capability it draws from the Mercedes-Benz SUVs.

Engine line-up: economical drive systems

In addition to the modern petrol variants adopted from the preceding model, with their customary effortless power delivery and high drive comfort, the appeal of the R-Class is now also enhanced by a range of optimised diesel engines. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development: “We have reworked the R-Class completely, thereby adding to its appeal and enhancing its premium qualities, but without losing any of the advantages of this unique vehicle concept. On top of this, our BlueEFFICIENCY strategy makes the R-Class the most economical and environmentally friendly MPV in the premium segment“.

Despite delivering the same output and improved performance compared with the preceding model, the new R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY consumes around 7 percent less fuel, at 7.6 l per 100 km*. The new R 350 CDI 4MATIC combines the high performance of a V8 model with the low fuel consumption of an economical V6 variant. It is happy with just 8.5 litres of diesel* per one hundred kilometres, thereby undercutting its predecessor by 0.8 litres – yet is able to offer significantly enhanced performance. While previously the maximum performance topped out at 165 kW (224 hp), the V6 diesel engine now boasts 195 kW (265 hp) as well as 620 Newton metres of torque. Making its debut here in the R-Class, it is a powerful package that enables this most dynamic of all the diesel-powered R-Class models to achieve effortlessly superior levels of performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds, while the top speed is 235 km/h.

With the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz is offering one of the cleanest diesel models in the world. The V6 engine achieves an output of 155 kW (211 hp) and torque of 540 Newton metres. Compared with its predecessor, this model also manages to achieve reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions while providing enhanced performance. Thanks to AdBlue© exhaust after-treatment, the compression-ignition engine consumes an average of 0.3 of a litre less, at 8.4 litres of diesel* per one hundred kilometres, generating in the process the same level of emissions as a comparable petrol engine. As a result, this model currently already meets the emission values planned for 2014 according to the EU6 standard. All other petrol and diesel versions of the R-Class meet the EU5 standard.

* combined NEDC consumption)

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Geared up: 7G-TRONIC as standard in all models

All R-Class models are equipped with the latest-generation of the innovative

7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This seven-speed transmission now has new bearings and couplings, operates with different oil pressures and uses a new, low-friction oil. These measures reduce friction and churning losses, thereby improving efficiency. The new torque converter with slip-reduced lockup clutch likewise improves efficiency and aids fuel economy. In addition, standstill decoupling lowers fuel consumption. This technical feature reduces transmission input torque in “D” when the car is at rest, for example at traffic lights. This lowers the stress on the engine, making for lower fuel consumption, better vehicle acoustics and smoother idling. The slip-controlled clutch is engaged as soon as the driver releases the operating brake, ensuring no delay when the vehicle moves off.

Simply stunning: the design of the R-Class

The latest generation of the R-Class features a new, self-assured appearance. The overall impression is determined by an integrity of design that encapsulates the unique personality of this highly versatile vehicle. The focus of the designers was the completely revised front section which, by emphasising the width and making use of a horizontally structured bonnet, affords the entire vehicle a look which is as harmonious as it is powerfully dynamic. As well as the bonnet, the vehicle’s wings, radiator grille and surround, headlamps and bumpers with chrome underguard have all been completely redesigned. As an optional extra, a chrome insert with integrated LED daytime driving lights in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps is available to enhance the look of the R-Class even further.

The side view features coupé-like lines – a pleasant contrast to conventional MPVs – and is characterised by the modified exterior mirror housings and the wheel design. Wheels are available in 5-spoke, 5-twin spoke or 10-spoke designs, and in sizes ranging from 43.2 to 53.3 centimetres (17 to 21 inches). The design idiom of the front is continued consistently through to the rear section which, with its new bumper covering, modified tail lamps and integrated tailpipe trim, has also been given an accentuated wide look. The 2010 model year R-Class looks particularly attractive in the new “diamond white” paint finish.

Wellness program: a relaxed environment for both longer journeys and everyday use

Particularly where seating variations are concerned, the interior of the new R-Class offers a great deal of scope: in its standard version this saloon designed for relaxed, safe touring has five seats, but four, six or seven-seater configurations are also possible. The front seats are partially electrically adjustable as standard, and on request the front occupants can also enjoy actively ventilated, heated multicontour seats with fully electric adjustments and a memory function. The R-Class also reveals another benefit in the form of its large, versatile luggage compartment: in the standard-wheelbase versions the luggage compartment holds up to 1950 litres, while the long-wheelbase version boasts 2385 litres. In all five-seat variants there is a separate stowage compartment beneath the load compartment floor, while the optional EASY PACK tailgate, which can be operated remotely by means of a switch or key, also makes access to the luggage compartment easier. As such the R-Class is the most variable and spacious vehicle in the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger car product range.

The bright, classic interior – which seems even more spacious when fitted with the optional panoramic glass sunroof – makes use of new materials and colour combinations to enhance the high-class appeal and quality of this luxury tourer. At the same time they underline the sense of wellbeing inside the vehicle which is so typical of a Mercedes-Benz. Available interior appointments include the upholstery combination of “Aspen” fabric and breathable, soft-touch ARTICO man-made leather.

Two-tone interior appointments are a new addition to the range: this is where the base colour almond beige can be combined with the contrasting shade of mocha brown. Alternatively, the base colour alpaca grey combined with contrasting dark basalt grey is also available. Both colour combinations are used on the dashboard, steering wheel, centre console, seats, door linings and floor coverings. When choosing ARTICO or leather appointments at the same time, the piping is finished in a contrasting colour. The AMG Interior Sports package includes single-tone black nappa leather appointments as standard. As alternatives to the aluminium trim with a dark longitudinal grain or the chrome trim in silver shadow, it is also possible to order luxurious wood trims in high-gloss brown eucalyptus, high-gloss brown burred walnut or high-gloss anthracite poplar.

Model range: the R-Class with a personal touch

The nine basic variants already provide plenty of opportunity to select an R‑Class to suit specific individual requirements. All models boast numerous features as standard which help to make travelling both on long journeys as well as on short urban trips even safer and more relaxed. These features include the unique anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, a complete restraint system with eight airbags, crash-active NECK-PRO head restraints, a tyre pressure loss warning system and adaptive brake lights. Safety is also enhanced thanks to high-performance telematic systems such as the Audio 20, Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS with an extremely user-friendly interface.

The THERMATIC automatic climate control system is fitted with a combination filter to further reduce pollutants which may be contained in the outside air entering the vehicle. As an optional extra, a THERMOTRONIC system providing separate rear air conditioning is available to meet all interior air conditioning requirements. The spacious glove compartment now comes with an AUX-IN connection for external audio or entertainment devices. Connection options can also be extended further with an optional Media Interface (UCI).

To complement the extensive standard equipment, the R-Class provides a variety of assistant systems which push ride comfort and safety to the highest level and underpin the vehicle’s leading position in this market segment. These include DISTRONIC proximity control, AIRMATIC air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS), or Blind Spot Assist, which can make changing lanes significantly safer. The modern LINGUATRONIC voice control system makes using the telematics systems even easier and more convenient, while a reversing camera provides for smooth, easy parking or manoeuvring in blind spots. As soon as the driver engages “R” gear, the image from the camera is shown on the high-resolution COMAND APS display. Rear passengers, meanwhile, can enjoy their own entertainment programme thanks to the rear seat entertainment system. Seat heating can also be ordered for the second row of seats to increase comfort even further in winter.

Valuation: surveys confirm high resale expectations

Experience shows that Mercedes-Benz models are among the most stable on the market in terms of value retention, and they therefore offer a significant financial advantage. This was confirmed once again last year by a neutral third-party when the German specialist magazine “Auto Bild” selected the “2010 Value Champions” in different vehicle categories based on surveys conducted by Saarbrücken-based market research institute Bähr & Fess Forecast. The “Value Champion” among MPVs, the R 300 CDI, emerged at the head of the field in this market segment, and according to the forecasts would retain a value of 47.5 percent after four years. The R‑Class already held this leading position in an expert analysis of residual values last year.

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