Launched in 2006, the W221 brought a raft of innovations and features to Mercedes’ already monumentally capable S-Class line-up. Slightly bigger than its predecessor, the model again was available in sports-car crushing V12 form.
The W221 boasted an even more enhanced stability control programme, advanced braking assist and radar-assisted cruise control as well as upgraded ‘Air-matic’ air suspension. Inside, it eschewed the previous W220’s use of plastics for more traditional and luxurious wood and metal. The model was a tour-de-force of Mercedes-Benz design and engineering prowess.bkgrnd.jpeg511.07 KB
The History
This car has lived both in Scotland and France (with a UK owner) and has been carefully maintained throughout its life. While in France, the Mercedes underwent a total (hydraulic) suspension overhaul. Also, it has had at least three sets of alloy wheels as the previous owner was meticulous about their condition. More recently (At 78,000 miles), the car has had a new set of spark plugs and its oil cooler replaced.
The outstanding 5. 5 V12 twin turbo engine is smooth as silk and matches the performance of many supercars, with 517 BHP and 830nm torque it propels the car from a standstill to 60mph in just 4. 4 secs and pulls even harder past the 60mph mark to in excess of 200mph (if you wanted to have the vehicle de restricted from its 155mph limiter).
The specification puts most modern cars to shame and consists of (but not limited to... As there is so much on the car);
- Keyless entry/ exit and start - Double glazed windows all round - Cruise control - Climate control - Auto HID headlights - Auto wipers - Soft close doors - Auto open/ Close bootlid - ABC Active Body Control with Height adjustable air suspension - Multifunction electric heated/ air conditioned/ adaptive and Massaging seats all round (rears also recline etc) fronts can be set to dynamic mode to adapt through cornering etc - Sat Nav (updated to 2014 maps) - Free-view TV - CD/ DVD / minidisc multichanger - Harman Kardon logic 7 Audio - Bluetooth Telephone connection - Reverse Camera - Front and Rear parking Sensors - Garage door/ electric gate opener - Electric sunroof - Suede stitch detailed headlining with front and rear vanity mirrors - Electric blinds for all rear windows
One of the main aspects of the considerable amount of service invoices is that nearly all the work on the car has been done by Mercedes main agents - both in the UK and Europe.
There are some pretty hefty bills for work carried out, as well as a regular series of receipts that show the car underwent regular and thorough servicing. All very reassuring.
The metallic silver paint retains a deep lustre, its consistent gloss, as well as the changing light on the angled surfaces helping to define the chiselled facets of the car’s bodywork. Shut lines and panel gaps are tight, and the big doors open and close without sagging or groaning. The deep front spoiler appears strong - no significant scuffs or cracks - and the rear valance is similarly good with no discoloration around the exhausts.
There is a surprising (if subtle) amount of brightwork on the car for a modern, all of which is in excellent condition. Likewise, the seals around doors and windows look healthy and supple. There is no delamination around the glass.
The wide 18in alloys are in fine fettle, no curbing. As mentioned, they are actually the car’s third set and make a very distinctive feature. Overall, a great-looking car.extr.jpeg427.94 KB
The Interior
As well as the monumental performance from the V12, these Mercedes uber-saloons are also all about the interior comfort and style. This S600L offers all the toys, bells and whistles, and retains them in excellent condition too.
For the driver, there is every possible driver aid - as well as the visual delight of that deep ‘piano lacquer Designo black’ steering wheel and fascia (a £2000 extra). The massage (and air-conditioned) seats perform just as designed, while their grey perforated leather shows little in the way of wear; back or front. All are electronically adjustable. And the smooth-operating rear blinds are a nice touch for either sun shade or privacy. The carpets and the headlining (Suede or Alcantara?) are also very clean and tear-free, so there’s nothing to ruin the ambience that the designers intended.
Such is the quality - and the facilities - of the interior that the car could still be used for chauffeur-driven rental - or simply be used for ultimate comfort family drives. intr.jpeg403.94 KB
The Mechanics
The engine bay is very businesslike; no signs of leaks or overheating, and nothing out of place. There are one or two small chips or small spots of surface corrosion on an edge or two, but no signs of accumulated dirt. PIpes and hoses look very healthy and cowls and bracing are in very good shape.
The underside of the car looks to be very robust; it’s undersealing intact and all parts appearing sturdy and quite clean.
The sheer ability of this car, both in terms of on-road performance, as well as its ability to offer its occupants every comfort and protection is quite something.
As a long distance express, there is little to match it.
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