Hi, new to the forum...I was wondering if someone could explain any differences betwen the W140 SEL andS class designations. Are the differences only in the engines or are there different features offered between the two designations...I may be wrong, but woud it be fair to assume that the 'S' designation started at 1994 ? With 1991-1993 being the SEL &SE classes?

Between the two is one series engine better than the other dependability wise? Being that 1991 wa the first production year, would it be better to avoid pre 1994 models? or are they just as good as the S...?

Thanks

 

SEL = provides extra options, mostly interior. SEL ended with the the end of 1993 year productions. A 1994 S600 and a 1993 600SEL have the same 120 series v12 engine. 500SEL/S500 =the 119 seriesv8 engine. S class labeling started in 1994. W140 is the long wheel base chassis, 1992-1999 years of productions. The mid-to mid/late 1990s enginhes had engine electrical (wiring harness insulation decaying and computer modules extra sensitivities, etc.) issues, but can be repaired. Send an email and I can describe what SEL provides on my car. thanks. wvmercer.

 

Hi, thanks for the info , so if im reading this correctly a 92-93 may not have the electrical harness issues? but would it still be wise to have the harness changed out?

could you help me to name a few areas which i should pay close attention to while inspecting the car?

i would probably end up installing either a LPG or CNG system once I get it...any tips on this route?

btw its still up in the air between a s class w140 and a ce w124

i'll PM you my email address.

thanks!

 

92-93 years also had wiring harness issues. Mine was the wiring to the two MAFs decayed from the MAF burn-off cycle after engine shut down, puts a strain on the wiring for a second. Over the years, the insulation decayed, not from engine heat though. The Fuel Injectors wiring still ok as is other top/bottomengine wiring. The computer modules are very sensitive to errors. Converting to LPG/CNG could be a challenge beyond the hassle and return on investment. I would not do it, for either the v6,8,or12.