MERCEDES-BENZ W140 and C140: From the 300SE 2.8 to the CL600 and the Tuners

MERCEDES-BENZ W140 AND C140 Complete Model History, Engineering, AMG Variants and a Detailed Buyer’s Guide of More Than 20 Pages Few luxury cars embody the confidence, engineering ambition and uncompromising standards of their era as clearly as the Mercedes-Benz W140. Introduced in 1991, this generation of the S-Class was developed to establish new standards in comfort, safety, refinement and technical sophistication. Its C140 coupé counterpart combined the same engineering depth with a more exclusive grand touring character. This large format, full color reference presents the complete story of the W140 and C140. It covers their development, engines, transmissions, technical evolution, model updates, AMG variants, specialist conversions, production data, VIN and data card information and a detailed buyer’s guide extending over more than 20 pages. More than 140 recent color photographs illustrate the cars, their interiors, technical details and important model differences. Designed for owners, collectors, enthusiasts and prospective buyers, this comprehensive reference explains the complete model family, from the six cylinder saloons to the V8 and V12 flagships and the exclusive SEC and CL coupés. This comprehensive reference covers: Complete W140 and C140 Model History: From the early six cylinder, V8 and V12 saloons to the later S320, S420, S500 and S600 models, together with the exclusive SEC and CL coupés. The book follows the development of both model series and explains the important technical, stylistic and nomenclature changes introduced during their production lives. Engines, Transmissions and Technical Development: Detailed coverage of the six cylinder, V8 and V12 engines, together with automatic transmissions, suspension systems, braking technology, safety developments and the increasingly sophisticated electronic and pneumatic systems used throughout the model range. Comfort, Safety and Advanced Engineering: The technology that gave the W140 its distinctive character, including double glazing, advanced climate control, pneumatic comfort functions, extensive electrical equipment and the many systems developed to improve refinement, safety and long distance comfort. AMG Models, Coupés and Specialist Conversions: The development of the C140 coupés, together with AMG versions and interpretations by Brabus, RENNtech, Duchatelet and other specialists who transformed the W140 and C140 into even more exclusive or powerful automobiles. Production Data, Originality and Model Identification: VIN decoding, data cards, factory options, paint and upholstery codes, technical specifications, production figures, model identification and important details for owners and collectors seeking to understand or preserve an original car. Detailed Buyer’s Guide of More Than 20 Pages: The most important areas to inspect before buying a W140 or C140, including body condition, engines, transmissions, suspension, electronics, climate control, pneumatic comfort systems, wiring harness concerns, service history and other areas where poor repairs or neglected maintenance can become expensive. Whether you are considering the purchase of a W140 or C140, already own one, or simply appreciate the engineering of this remarkable S-Class generation, this book offers a carefully researched and richly illustrated guide to its history, technology and many variations. Bernd S. Koehling is the author of more than 20 books about Mercedes-Benz automobiles, covering models from the supercharged classics of the 1930s to the modern SL generations. His books combine carefully researched model history, technical information, extensive color photography and practical advice for owners and prospective buyers.