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1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SE W126 (Automatic / 4 Gears) RWD [1985-1991]

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Overview

1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SE W126 (Automatic / 4 Gears) RWD [1985-1991]

The 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SE with catalyst represents the rarest and most dynamic variant of the royal W126 (Phase-II) series. Unlike the extended SEL model, this standard-chassis variant offers the massive 5.6-liter V8 (M117) engine in a more compact and lighter package, making it the fastest range limousine for the time being. With a power of 279 HP and a torque of 430 Nm , the 560 SE offers an acceleration that rivaled many sports cars of the era. This car was the preferred choice for those who wanted the maximum power of Mercedes, but who preferred to drive the vehicle themselves, enjoying the added agility of the shorter chassis without sacrificing any element of luxury and German royal engineering.

Model:S-Class W126 phase-II
Production year:1989
Transmission:Automatic 4 speed
Starting price:€70,200
Engine size:5.6 L
Max torque:430 Nm
Cylinders alignment:V 8
Charge system:Gasoline
Displacement:5547 cm3
Max power:279 PS / 275 hp / 205 kW
Fuel type:Gasoline
Fuel consumption:16.6 L/100km combined
Extra-urban:11.8-14.2 L/100km
City:20.7-24.8 L/100km
Emission standard:N/A
Body style:Sedan
0-80 km/h:5.2 s
0-100 km/h:7.1 s
0-160 km/h:17.4 s
0-200 km/h:32.4 s
Top speed:248 km/h
Curb weight:1800 kg
Gross weight:2260 kg
Length:5020 mm
Width:1820 mm
Height:1443 mm
Fuel capacity:90 liters

Expert Assessment

Consumption
85%
Safety
92%
Performance
92%
Driveability
95%
Durability
95%
Maintenance
82%
Design
100%
Summary

Experts regard the 560 SE as the "wolf in the lamb's clothing" within the W126 series, as the standard chassis hides the brute force of the 5.6-liter engine. According to ProfessCars™ estimates, the vehicle achieves a theoretical top speed of 248 km/h and a 0-100 km/h acceleration of just 7.1 seconds, making it faster than its older sibling SEL. The average consumption of 16.6 L/100km is high, but fully expected for this level of performance and luxury. The starting price in 1989 for this model in Germany was around 137,000 Deutsche Mark (approx. €70,200). Today, the short-chassis 560 SE is one of the most sought-after models by refined collectors due to its rarity compared to the SEL versions.

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