The first public display of the Mercedes S-Class W220 took place in 1998 at the Paris Motor Show. A year later, the S320 CDI model and the flagship version of the S600 were presented, and a year later - the S400 CDI. In the fall of 2002, the car underwent a slight facelift. The sedan received slightly modified taillights and new headlights, with clear lenses. The last W220 left the factory in 2006. The limousine was assembled in Germany and Indonesia.
Exterior
Compared to its predecessor, the design has undergone a real revolution. The Mercedes S-class began to look more elegant, and the headlights acquired the original configuration. Despite less massive aerodynamic forms, the German sedan still looked very presentable, especially in black body color.
Interior
Much has changed in the interior. Here they completely broke the connection with the style of other Mercedes models. The S-Class was supposed to be unique and different from the cheaper E and C-Class. It was the only vehicle in the German automaker's range to feature a custom steering wheel, center console, door panels and seats. Interestingly, the steering wheel, with buttons to control the phone and audio system, was subsequently exported to the Maybach, which relies on the S-Class design solutions.
Equipment
We can talk about the equipment for a long time. The predecessor of the W140 raised the bar very high in the field of equipping electronic devices. W220 had no choice but to go further in this direction.
Anyone who decides to buy a luxury German sedan should know that this car has never had a complete set. The list of basic equipment was completely dependent on the power unit under the hood, and everything else could be obtained at an additional cost. So theoretically, if you want to buy an S-class in the most complete equipment, you need to choose among the flagship engines. However, in practice, even the 320 CDI can be equipped with the Keyless Go system.
Active ventilated seats with massage function always keep the driver in the optimal position during fast cornering. The seats work in cooperation with the Pre-Sef system, a preventive safety system created by Mercedes specifically for this model. If the system detects a risk of collision, the driver and passenger seats are instantly brought to the optimum position, the sunroof is locked, and the seat belts gently pull the driver and passengers. Thanks to this preparation, all safety systems, including 8 airbags, provide the greatest degree of protection in a collision. It is noteworthy that the S-Class did not take part in EuroNCAP crash tests.
Of the electronic devices, mention should be made of power seats, a refrigerator, the Command navigation system, which, after restyling in 2003, received a wide-angle screen, Linguatronic voice control, xenon headlights, and later bi-xenon headlights, a door closer, a power trunk lid and Distronic active cruise control. , which maintains a distance from the vehicle in front.
Engines
Petrol:
- 2.8 V6 (204 hp) S280;
- 3.2 V6 (224 hp) S320;
- 3.7 V6 (245 hp) S350;
- 4.3 V8 (279 hp) S430;
- 5.0 V8 (306 hp) S500;
- 5.4 V8 (360-500 hp) S55 AMG;
- 5.5 BiTurbo V8 (500 hp) S600;
- 6.0 V12 (367 hp) S600;
- 6.0 BiTurbo V12 (612 hp) AMG S65;
- 6.3 V12 (444 HP) AMG S63.
Diesel:
- 3.2 R6 (197-204 hp) S320 CDI;
- 4.0 V8 BiTurbo (250 / 260 hp) S400 CDI.
Under the hood of the Mercedes S-Class W220, 6, 8 and 12-cylinder engines were installed. Among the gasoline units, the weakest is the 204-horsepower V6, inherited by the S280. There were two more V6s to choose from: the S320 and S350. Two V8s were also present in the line: the weaker S430 developed 279 hp, and the more powerful S500 already 306 hp. The latter accelerates the massive sedan to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. If this is too little for someone, then you can always choose the S600, the power unit of which has a return of 367 hp. Later he began to develop 500 hp.
In Europe, diesel units are most widely used. The weakest of them 320 CDI with 197 hp, and then - 204 hp. The most powerful 400 CDI with two turbochargers can provide 250 or 260 hp. With the V8 turbodiesel, the S400 CDI accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. Claimed average fuel consumption is 9.6 liters per 100 km.
For AMG fans, the S55 (360 and 500 hp), S63 (444 hp) and the top version of the S65 (612 hp) were prepared, which can accelerate to 100 km/h in 4 .2 seconds, and after removing the restriction, it easily steps over the 300 km / h mark.
The lowest operating costs require 6-cylinder gasoline engines. They provide the best compromise between fuel consumption and reliability. Most of all emotions, of course, are given by the most powerful units from under the AMG court tuning studio. But this is the choice of those who are not afraid of a consumption of 20 l / 100 km. In general, operating costs are proportional to the size of the engine. The most common problems with gasoline units are failing ignition coils.
Diesel lovers are faced with malfunctions in the injection system (injectors). One of the weak points is the turbine, and in the V8 (OM628) there are two of them, which increases the cost of repairs. Another curse of diesel engines is timing chain stretching. To replace it, you need to remove the engine, and these are additional costs that should be expected after 200,000 km. Weaker options bring less trouble. In the S320 CDI version, the flaps in the intake manifold fail.
There are also malfunctions of the throttle valve and cases of clogging of the EGR valve. Often the crankshaft oil seal leaks. Sometimes it is necessary to replace the catalyst and lambda probe. Malfunctions in the operation of the engine control unit are not ruled out.
Transmission
Neither engine was available with a manual transmission, only a 5 or 7 speed automatic. The S-Class W220 is not a very reliable car, and the gearbox is one of the weak points of a limousine. Mercedes was also available with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system, which significantly improves stability and handling.
The high torque of powerful motors, especially the 560 Nm S400 CDI, leads to serious damage to the automatic transmission. Often problems arose after 50,000 km. Troubles can be avoided by observing a simple rule - never press the gas all the way until the car starts moving. The cost of repairing the box is about $ 2,500. First of all, all of the above applies to the 5-speed automatic transmission.
There are oil leaks from the rear differential.
Clicks when the load changes indicate wear on the cardan damper.
Suspension
Both rear and front, the S-Class has a multi-link suspension with Airmatic pneumatic elements. In some instances, there is also an Active Body Control system, which itself adjusts the characteristics of the suspension depending on driving conditions.
The biggest problem is the air suspension. The compressor fails and leaks appear in the system. Suspiciously low clearance and too reluctant lifting after starting the engine will tell you about problems with the Airmatic. The compressor is located on the right side behind the bumper. Its work can be checked by turning on the ignition - it should work. Suspension repair costs can be around $1,500. The most common harbinger of expenses is the message "TOO LOW" on the on-board computer screen.
Instances with the optional Active Body Control system should be avoided - the pump and hydraulic shock absorbers often break. Although the system fails less frequently than the air suspension, it is more expensive to repair.
Problems with pneumatics are often associated with depressurization of the junction of the air supply line and the air spring.
Typical malfunctions
Before buying, you should pay close attention to the body elements, which are often affected by rust. Corrosion most often appears on the lower edges of the doors and in the area of \u200b\u200bwheel arches. "Red plague" is characteristic of cars assembled before 2003.
There are also cases of failure of the power steering pump, as evidenced by excessive resistance that appears during steering.
Delivers trouble and advanced electronics. All sorts of sensors fail. There are problems with the navigation system and the CD player. Due to hardware failures, the Command system screen fades. At low temperatures, the parking sensors fail. ESP sensors and alternator may fail.
Alternator failures are more common in vehicles prior to 2003.
Some owners complain about fluctuations in temperature or the change in the speed of the supply fan at random. Shutters need to be calibrated.
These are just some of the traps that await owners of the S-Class.
Steering rods wear out relatively quickly.
Conclusion
With the advent of the W220, it quickly became clear that the era of invulnerable and reliable Mercedes was over. Therefore, when choosing the W220, you should not pay attention to the cheapest offers. In such instances are guaranteed: terrible condition, overhaul of the engine or attachments, comprehensive repairs of electrical wiring and suspension. Ultimately, the amount spent on restoring the limousine will exceed the cost of the car itself.
It is much better to choose fresh samples - the last years of production. Despite the unflattering reviews about the car, it has its price. Nevertheless, before buying, you should think carefully: can you really afford repairs, which sometimes exceed the amount of 2-3 thousand dollars.
However, the Mercedes S-Class is not only about high operating costs, but also about comfort, luxury and engine power.
Technical data Mercedes S-class W220 (1998-2005)
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He did not turn out to be the hero of jokes, but he managed to be noted in women's literature as an object of desire and appeared in a bunch of films. The company actively used product placement to promote the car to the masses. The massive rocky ancestor in the face of the W140 was phenomenally prestigious, but not everyone wanted to own one. The new car was made a little smaller, a little lighter and much sleeker.
The approach paid off, the largest Mercedes sold like hot cakes in the States, where they eventually sold almost half of the total circulation of the car - 188 thousand out of 460. Of course, the owner had already driven such a car himself, and did not look like a hired driver of a prosperous person. The company realized that it was impossible to make the car too prestigious, and did not repeat the mistakes again. For those who needed a different image, they decided to revive the Maybach brand. In addition to a less massive design, less weight and a complete rejection of manual transmissions, the car was remembered for a few more points. Firstly, the mass air suspension, which made the car both comfortable and pleasantly manageable. Secondly, the unprecedented complication of the level of electrical equipment of the body and the cost of maintenance closely related to this factor, which has increased several times. And an extremely poor body color. For the first time, a machine of this class had problems with reliability and corrosion.
It cannot be said that the car received the status of unsuccessful. No one would say that about a top-end Mercedes. But definitely the car turned out to be “acutely relevant”, and not “timeless”, like its other ancestors - not only the W140, but also the earlier ones -, and.
Another important feature of the two hundred and twentieth body was the appearance of all-wheel drive on the top sedan - before that, the option was available only for the E-class and SUVs. By the beginning of the 21st century, it turned out that all drive wheels were in demand not only by "jeepers" - they turned out to be to the liking of both "sportsmen" and those who operate the car in the north, in the mountains, or just sometimes tow trailers (yes, in the States this is quite relevant for the S-class).
Pay attention to the special demand for cars with standard armor - no other car on the secondary market is represented so widely in the armored version. And the reservation here is factory, which means that the cars retain acceptable driving characteristics and resource.
Armored Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard
Breakdowns and problems in operation
Chassis
Technically, the car does not stand out too much from a number of other Mercedes models. The design is classic in almost everything, with solutions that have been tested by time on hundreds of thousands of machines. Double wishbone suspension in front, almost like on, multi-link rear. A serious difference from its predecessors and a "curse", as I said, was the air suspension. Its additional elements, compressor, pipelines and the racks themselves turned out to be a very expensive “consumable”, which, moreover, did not like dirty roads very much.
The reliability of very expensive air springs was acceptable only when operating in a dry and clean climate, but in Europe, and even more so in Russia, the life of the part was only a few years. Additional precautions, such as regular washing of the suspension, lubricating the cylinder with special compounds and installing casings, could extend the life to five or six years, which is not bad, but still the chances of seeing a car lying “on its belly” in the morning turned out to be too big.
The cost of components is traditionally high - the compressor costs "only" 23 thousand rubles, but the price of the air spring of the rack starts from 80-120 thousand, and the price tag as a whole with a shock absorber is all 300. Yes, if you carefully look at the tables, this is more than some whole machines.
There are substitutes, but they are limitedly available, and the price still "bites" - two cylinders cost no less than 60 thousand rubles, and of acceptable quality - already closer to a hundred. The main consumable with slightly "current" racks is the compressor, which has to be changed often. Many machines are operated for years on half-killed racks, landing batteries and killing a couple of compressors a year.
Otherwise, the suspensions do not have any serious differences from the same E-class in terms of resource, unless you buy an armored vehicle - there the suspension resource will be extremely small, and the price of some components will be many times higher. By the way, if you suddenly have a Maybach, then some of the W140 and armored W220 suspension elements are suitable for it, and the price gain for rebuilding the suspension of one axle will be ... about a million and a half. But even millionaires are not alien to life hacks.
Body and interior
It would seem that the company has never produced frankly bad cars that would rot like a Zhiguli during perestroika. But at the turn of the century there was a puncture. At first it turned out to be not very corrosion resistant, but in general its quality was acceptable. And now, the newest W220, the face of the brand, and suddenly ... In the third or fourth year of operation, the paintwork of the car loses its luster, the paint peels off, and rust crawls out from under it. This was a serious blow to the image, especially since the company did not have time to do anything with the technical process of painting on the most popular C-class W203, which was released in 2000, and the problem also affected it.
This was only fixed in 2002-2003, when the painting technology was improved, and the cars stopped rusting at a staggering rate. In most of the United States, the problem did not manifest itself acutely - moreover, American cars often did just fine without enhanced anti-corrosion treatment, which is especially bad after bringing such a car to Russia. The "Americans" of the early years are strongly recommended to bypass a kilometer, unless, of course, you are going to just put the car in the garage and admire it.
The low price of most copies on the "secondary" speaks precisely of the problems with corrosion that have begun, and, therefore, of the loss of prestige. Fortunately, the power structure of the body is protected quite well, the spars of the cars do not fall off and the floor does not fall through, but for another ten years and ... I'm afraid that there will be much more by that time.
But the interior is really good, especially on European cars in good trim levels. The change in design had a positive effect on the interior comfort, besides, the interior has become much more functional and safe. And it was made with high quality - even a driver's seat with a run of two hundred thousand kilometers can look great, unless there is perforated leather with ventilation, such a coating serves much less.
But the wear of the steering wheel cover does not indicate record runs. If the interior is made of light leather, then the steering wheel will be scuffed after a hundred thousand mileage, and the problem is especially pronounced if a woman with rings on her hands and long claws drives the car.
Otherwise, there is something to break, but these are not exorbitant costs. The electrics as a whole do not differ in particular stability, digital data transmission buses and block ones with SAM modules are used here, the front and rear modules communicate with each other via an optical line. As on, problems due to unsuccessful lighting, disconnecting batteries on the go, short circuits can be extremely expensive. However, the average repair price is now relatively low and is in the range of 5-10 thousand rubles. The main thing is to prevent the blocks from being flooded with water and the contacts and boards to burn out.
Motors
Interestingly, against the background of other problems, the motors here are ideally reliable. About the M112 and M113 series engines, these V6 and V8 make up the bulk of the engines for the S-class. They are very reliable, well repaired, have a large and predictable resource.
Diesel engines of the OM613 and OM648 series are also devoid of any serious problems. But the top-end turbodiesel V8 OM628 is strongly not recommended for purchase. His problems start with current injectors and injection pump failures, which leads to cracking of the cylinder head and pistons. Microcracks lead to increased crankcase gas pressure, and this is the main indicator of the need for overhaul.
The top-end V12 gasoline engines are represented by two variants of the M137 engine, which in design resembles two M112 connected together - the same block head architecture and general layout. Of the major differences - only the system for deactivating half of the cylinders at partial load, which reduces fuel consumption to the level of models with V8. The resource of an initially too long-stroke engine is less than that of a V8, and even overheating problems of such a complex design are very common, but in general this is a motor with good reliability. All his problems are caused by the fact that he fits very poorly into the engine compartment - he is too big for the W220.
As usual, the main enemy of all motors is overheating, and also various leaks and sensor failures, failure of catalysts with frequent misfires, etc. But on most cars, motors still have a good resource margin. The cars were mostly cherished, and the old engines endure long idling quite well.
Transmission
Here, too, no surprises - transmissions are traditionally reliable, including all-wheel drive versions. Unless the cost of front-wheel drive units in the secondary market is very high: both drives and gearbox are expensive, but breaking them is also not easy.
Automatic transmissions here are mainly of the 722.6 series, about which a lot has already been said before, because it was also installed on , and on , and on . The bulk of cars manufactured after 2001 are devoid of most of the "childhood diseases" and will not have any special resource problems with runs up to 250 thousand kilometers.
Which in 1998 replaced the notorious W-140 model. Having retained premium solidity, the new generation car has become more elegant than its predecessor and got rid of its angularity. At the same time, the car has reached a new level of technical equipment. Despite the fact that the first shows of the model caused outrage, she managed to maintain the championship of the S-class in the global automotive industry and become another legend of the German brand. Let's take a closer look at this car.
Presentation
In 1998, when the new flagship Mercedes-Benz S-Class was presented to the public, the audience was simply shocked. Compared to the W-140 model, which was called the “elephant” in our latitudes, the new car somehow fell short of the executive title. Huge feed, a massive silhouette and an immense grille have gone into oblivion. A sloping hood, a massive but not overweight silhouette, rounded body shapes - these are the main distinguishing features of the new car. And even the rectangular false radiator grille, which the owners of the W-140 model were so proud of, has changed beyond recognition. To call it rectangular, if possible, is a stretch.
Exterior
At first, motorists, shocked by the revolutionary changes, began to order the latest versions of the previous generation cars in a panic. But soon the shock of the novelty passed and many recognized that the Mercedes W220, whose photo illustrates its serious differences from its older brother, is really beautiful. In addition, thanks to a thoughtful design, he got rid of the static of his predecessor. To date, the S-class, embodied in the body of the W-220, seems much more interesting and dynamic than its older brother.
The classic "armored car" gave way to an elegant Italian car. It became lighter and smaller in size, but this did not affect solidity at all. It is interesting to note that in the period when a new representative of the premium class of the German brand appeared, in the countries of the post-Soviet space there was a fading of crazy dangerous times. Incidentally, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, another symbol of the 90s, went through similar changes around the same time.
Interior and equipment
Adherents of the old generation immediately criticized the salon: they say, there was less space and more noise. But for lovers of space, an elongated version was created, and as for noise, it is leveled by the excellent aerodynamics of the car. In terms of comfort, the car is a real representative of the premium segment. Leather trim, electric drives, excellent sound, interior mirror illumination and zoom, seat ventilation and heating, a wide range of safety electronics - all this and much more makes the interior unique and truly premium. Elegant styling and superior ergonomics complete this effect.
Engine
The range of engines that this car can be equipped with is very wide. It starts with a 2.8-liter 193-horsepower engine, installed on the model, which is positioned as a service model, and ends with a top-end 6-liter 367-horsepower engine. Three more engines are located between them: 3.2 with a capacity of 220 liters. With. (later it was replaced by 3.5); 4.3 V8 with a capacity of 275 liters. With.; and a 5-liter 300-horsepower engine. During the 2003 restyling, a couple more attractive engines appeared, including a 500-horsepower V12.
Until now, all motors as a whole have been quite reliable, and even with high mileage, they require only routine maintenance. Oil "Mercedes" W220 consumes quite quickly. This is especially true for large engines and cars with high mileage. Filters need to be changed after 20-30 thousand kilometers. Spark plugs with our gasoline behave very ambiguously. It is worth noting that spark plugs with platinum electrodes must be installed on all motors. In addition, most engines have two spark plugs per cylinder.
The owners of the previous model often complained about the destruction of the timing chain. In the W220 model, everything is in order in this regard. Problems with the chain are rare, especially if the owner correctly operates the car.
Transmission and drive
The most common transmission for this car was a five-speed automatic. It is worth noting that the manual transmission version of the S280 is extremely rare. "Automatic" works smoothly, shifts gears without unnecessary annoying pauses. He does not need maintenance. Change the oil only if the gearbox needs repair. If you operate the car wisely, then the "automatic" will not bring any inconvenience. Nevertheless, if you believe the reviews of employees of autotechnical stations, then there were fewer problems with the automatic transmission of the W-140 model.
The main number of copies of the Mercedes W220 is rear-wheel drive, but there are also all-wheel drive models. A prominent representative of this is the 4‑Matic modification that made the S-klasse a competitor to the famous Audi A8. Judging by the reviews of experts, the all-wheel drive system works flawlessly, even by modern standards. In general, when it comes to a 20-year-old Mercedes, it can be safely compared with many modern cars. The German company has always been the market leader, and many of its solutions are implemented by other companies decades later.
Suspension
What causes some criticism in the car is the suspension. Of course, the fact that a heavy machine loads the suspension more is obvious, but the older version had a more thoughtful chassis design. As reviews show, anti-roll bars most often fail. They need to be changed at best after 30 thousand km. Shock absorbers are the next to fail: due to the short-lived ABS system, they, together with the relay, need to be changed after 40-50 thousand km. Versions of the car that are equipped with hydraulic shock absorbers instead of pneumatic shock absorbers last longer.
After 100 thousand km, the time comes to replace the ball bearings. It is worth noting that the lower supports are changed separately from the lever. Tie rods together with tips serve from 60 to 100 thousand km. The durability of brake discs and pads naturally depends on how you drive. On average, it ranges from 10 to 40 thousand kilometers. Spare parts for the Mercedes W220 cost a lot, so when choosing a model in the secondary market, you should be extremely attentive to its condition.
A little bit of tar
Admittedly, the conservatives who considered the 1998 model unworthy of its predecessor were partly right. The W220 generation is really not as durable as the W140. But times have changed, and the public buying a premium Mercedes has become more civilized. In order for the car to reach a new level of consumer qualities (and as the characteristics show, the Mercedes W220 really did), we had to sacrifice its legendary reliability.
Frankly, not everyone can feel this difference in reliability. But what really catches the eye is the amazing equipment, excellent driving performance and the highest level of design study.
On road
Now let's talk about what the "Mercedes" (S-class, W220) is in operation. And he rides really at a high level: smoothly, silently, swiftly, and at the same time relaxed. It seems that he develops any reasonable speed effortlessly. At the same time, it is comfortable to drive in the car both in power-law and driver mode. The brakes do a great job, besieging a heavy car at any speed. The handling of the Mercedes W220 is truly premium.
Released in 2003, the S600 Biturbo version accelerates the car to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The S55 AMG modification with the same power (500 hp) was created for those who like not only to accelerate in a straight line, but also to quickly enter the turn. This was facilitated by a short base and reduced weight. And for those who are not ready to pay for a top-end modification, but want good dynamics, there is a version of the Mercedes S500 W220. It costs much less, but accelerates to “hundreds” in 6 seconds.
Restyling 2003
Even for a car as great as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, five years is old. Therefore, when several high-class competitors appeared on the market: the revolutionary BMW “seven”, the all-wheel drive Audi A8, made in an aluminum body, and the popular VW Phaeton, the management of the German company decided not to wait for the release of a new generation, which was to take place in the coming years, but slightly modernize the S-class. The appearance of the car has not changed much. The front optics became “crystal”, the rear lights got a fresher look, and the spoiler installed under the front bumper began to resemble a similar part of the Mercedes-Benz SLR model.
Inside, the S-Class received more significant changes. This is not about design, but about the technical aspect. There are new motors, new chassis settings, and most importantly, the ability to install 4-Matic all-wheel drive, which was already mentioned above. Previously, only class C and E models could boast of such a system. All-wheel drive not only improves the car's cross-country ability, which is not so important in the premium segment, but also increases the stability of the car at any speed, making it more dynamic on slippery surfaces.
In addition, the restyled W220 with a 6-liter engine was able to reach 500 horsepower. Thus, he retained the status of the most powerful car in its class. Such outstanding performance was achieved thanks to the use of turbocharging. Each block of the 12-cylinder V-engine received its own turbine.
"Mercedes" S W220: reviews
Based on the feedback from owners and experts, we highlight the main strengths and weaknesses of this model.
Advantages:
- Elegant appearance.
- Excellent dynamics.
- Luxurious equipment.
- Spacious salon.
- Balanced ride quality.
- Prestige.
Flaws:
- The older version is still more reliable.
- Not everyone appreciated the change of image.
- High price, even after almost two decades.
- High cost of maintenance and spare parts.
- High fuel consumption.
- Sensitivity of electrical equipment.
Conclusion
"Mercedes" W220, reviews of which have always been predominantly positive, was a bold turn in the development of the German brand. For the first time in many years, the company has slightly moved away from the reputation of a manufacturer of eternal, conservative and completely pragmatic cars, offering the buyer a slightly different approach to business.
Fashionable design and the richest equipment slightly affected the level of reliability. But this was inevitable, because the more modern and technically more complex the car, the more nodes in it that are prone to breakdowns.
Summarizing the above, we can conclude that the Mercedes W220 is a status car that will be popular for a long time, despite the fact that it has already been replaced by a new generation.
Finally, it is worth noting that the price of this car in the secondary market, depending on the year of manufacture and configuration, is approximately 7-12 thousand dollars.
Sales market: Russia.
The fourth generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) was introduced in 1998. In 2002, the model was restyled. S-Class has undergone aesthetic changes. It is easily distinguished from its predecessor by a slightly retouched front end with new bi-xenon headlights, and new taillights with four horizontal white stripes. The car also received new design wheels, new materials were used in the interior, and more comfortable seats were installed. In terms of safety, the main innovation was the PRE-SAFE preventive protection system for the driver and passengers. The upgraded engine range includes even more options available, previous modifications have improved their performance, but new ones have appeared, including the flagship versions of the S55 AMG with a V12 bi-turbo engine (500 hp) and the S65AMG L, whose power unit has been increased to 612 hp .With. It is important to note the introduction of the optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive system with an intelligent operating mode, which works closely with the ESP system. The 4MATIC drive is available in the S350, S430 and S500 models.
The updated version of the S-Class W220 after the modernization of 2002 received a number of improvements in equipment and comfort level. The interior uses more refined materials, and a redesigned center console now houses a monitor with a diagonal increased to 16.5 cm. The car offers new front seats, guaranteeing more comfort for active driving and less fatigue on the road. Simple versions will offer a standard set of equipment: fabric seat upholstery, power accessories (glasses, mirrors), leather steering wheel with tilt and reach adjustment, power front seats, climate control. More expensive ones have leather interiors and can be equipped with multi-contour seats with massage and ventilation, Keyless-Go system, automatic door closers, a sunroof, driver and passenger settings memory, a rear-seat entertainment system and other equipment.
The previous initial gasoline modification S320 (V6, 3.2 l, 224 hp) was replaced by the S350 model with a 3.7 liter engine and power increased to 245 hp. The S430 will use the same 4.3-liter V8 with 279 horsepower. Even more attractive is the S500 version with a 5-liter V8 unit (306 hp) - it takes 6.5 seconds to accelerate to 100 km / h. The S55 AMG model closes the line of V8 engines - the forced 5.4-liter engine no longer produces 360 hp. maximum power, as before, but 500 “forces”, allowing the sedan to overcome the first “hundred” in just 4.8 seconds (the previous result was 6 seconds). The top production model S600 L is equipped with a new 5.5 Bi-Turbo V12 engine, which, compared to the previous 5.8 V12 unit (367 hp), has also significantly increased in return (it reaches 500 hp). A more voluminous version of the 6.0 V12 is installed on the new flagship version of the S65 AMG L - here the engine power has been increased to 612 “horses”. Diesel versions include the most modest S320CDI with an economical 204-horsepower inline-six and the S400CDI with a 260-horsepower V8 diesel. Depending on the modification, a 5-speed automatic or 7-speed automatic (7G-Tronic) transmission was installed on the car.
The front independent double wishbone suspension and the rear independent multi-link give the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) high driving performance. The car offers Airmatic air suspension, which makes the ride as comfortable as possible. Also available is the active hydraulic suspension ABC (Active Body Control), which first appeared on the Mercedes-Benz W220 in the S600 version (optional for the S500) and provides even more comfort. The electronics controls the car's loading, movement, speed and acceleration, adjusting the chassis in real time - changing the clearance, increasing or decreasing the rigidity of each rack separately, due to which the "peck" of the body is extinguished during heavy braking, rolls in corners. In addition to the standard version with a body length of 5040 mm, a version extended by 120 mm with the designation L (Long) was offered. Wheelbase - 2965 and 3085 mm, respectively. The mass of the sedan, depending on the modification, is 1770-1935 kg, the load capacity is 525 kg. The luggage compartment has a volume of 500 liters.
Safety Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) 2002-2005 meets the most stringent requirements of its time. Of the innovations, it should be noted the appearance of a rollover sensor, which is responsible for the deployment of airbags to protect the head (curtain airbag). ESP and Brake Assist systems are now integrated into the new PRE-SAFE preventive safety system for driver and passengers, which receives information from a variety of sensors for early detection of the risk of an accident and timely preparation of passive safety systems. The equipment of the car also includes radar cruise control, capable of keeping the necessary distance to the vehicle in front, operating at speeds from 30 to 180 km / h. Reliable protection of the driver and passengers is provided by adaptive front and side airbags. The body of the S-Class (W220) is designed to minimize the risk of injury in a side impact.
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