[Guest (MBNZ)]

Were only the S320s offered in the short-wheelbase version in the U.S.? I would like to purchase a W140 ... but I strongly prefer the short-wheelbase version as I think the proportions are a whole lot sportier (the LWB to me looks a bit bloated). Does choosing a SWB car limit one to the S320? I'd sure like a V8, unless there's a relatively painless way to dial up the i6's power. Thanks for any advice.

 

[Guest (MBNZ)]

The SWB car was sold in years '94-99 as the S320W. They also sold the long wheel base as the S320V, as well as in the S420, S500 and S600 as well as under nomenclature using SEL, SE and SD before 1994. So, yes, to get the SWB you must settle for the V6. I have a '99 S320W (SWB). Great car. They also made it in a diesel version through '95 but I understand that there is some major defect as they age. Sorry, no V8 SWB W140 car in the USA. <br> <br> <br> <br> <br>

 

[Guest (MBNZ)]

I am fairly sure the 1992 400SE was a SWB version<br> with the 4.2 engine of course. If I am not mistaken, this was the only SWB W140 with the V-8. I also think the SWB has better proportions!!

 

[Guest (MBNZ)]

Interestingly, the 400SE has very little, if anything over the later S320W in the way of performance. This is a bit surprising, as the 320 had 228bhp and I believe the 400 had about 265bhp, but the gearing -- or something -- must have been different because the 0-60 and 1/4 mile times are almost identical (IIRC correctly, 0-60 was 8.7 sec in the 400SE and 8.8 sec in the S320). I believe the 400 was a heavier motor; that may contribute in a minor way as well.

 

[Guest (MBNZ)]

The W140 has many models besides the S320. Too many to list.<br> The W140 is available in V8.<br> From 1992 to at least 1998,<br> it came in 6, 2 V-8's, and a 12.<br> <br> Have fun researching these sites:<br> <br> http://www.cal.net/capitolwest/mercedes_model_identification.htm<br> <br> http://www.mbusa.com/brand/index.jsp<br> <br> http://fly.hiwaay.net/~gbf/mbmodels.html