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Aerodynamics combined with style. The result is an extremely low

co-efficient of drag (0.34).

Elegance from the wind-tunnel

The new coupes, the 380 SEC and
500 SEC, have many new features
which further improve their practicality.
Further technical development has,
to an appreciable extent, determined
their shape. Their contemporary profile
results from the integration of function
and style, not from undisciplined extravagance.
Intensive efforts to lower the coefficient of drag even further have resulted in more than a reduction in fuel
consumption.
The results are obvious at first
glance, from the smooth line of the
body-shell and the absence of sharp
edges and corners.
Shaped for a purpose
Seen from the side, the body is
wedge-shaped; the bonnet is sloped and
the boot lid is higher than the bonnet.
The front roof-pillars are aerodynamically angled and shaped. The roof
slopes down towards the rear. These

visible modifications result in invisible,

but very effective, improvements in important areas.
They reduce lift-forces at the front
axle, improve road-holding, and the
driver has an even better view of all four
corners of the car.
The coupe concept has, of course,
helped in achieving the low co-efficient
of drag.
Styling features of the coupe are
frameless side windows, aII of which
can be fully recessed. Side windows in
the rear that can only be wound halfway down are a compromise that
Mercedes-Benz would never accept.
Because there is no centre pillar,
the view to the sides is not obstructed.
Forward visibility is also generous, and
fully-recessed wipers sweep 76/o of the
screen.

Front roofpillar with recessed rain runnel. An aerodynamicallyshaped

rear-view mirror which is adj ustable from inside the car.

Doorhandle set in dirt-deflecting panel. There is a rain-water oullet

in the barrel of the lock.

Halogen headlamps and wrap-around indicators. Fog-lamps.

Recessed windscreen wipers. lNilh overload protection.

A beautiful shape, both

functional and emcient
A number of detail featu res protect
the bodywork against minor damage.
For example, front bumpers shaped like
spoilers; these also reduce lift-forces at
the front axle.
The shield extends along the sides
of the car in the shape of deep protective panels, and to the rear. Bumpers
and side panels are made of light, yet
highly durable material and are easily
replaced.
Another example of the co-ordination of aII of the features is the front foglamps, with their "stepped" lenses,
which are integrated into the lower
bumper panel, so that they are protected
against damage from gravel or minor
impact, as weII as being positioned in
the right place, close to the ground.
For easy access, the light-alloy boot
lid opens to a generously wide angle.
Boot-capacity is the same as in the
S-class saloon, 0.505 m3 (17.6 cu.ft.).

A wide range of colours

To enhance the individuality of the
new coupe, there are twenty-six different paint colours to choose from,
eight standard colours, nine special
shades and nine metallic finishes.

In the rear. two single seats. with folding centre armrest and oddments
tray.

Large, wide-opening doors make

access to the front seats easy. When the
driver's door is open, the vacuum locking mechanism of the front seat backs is
released automatically. Rear-seat passengers can also get in without trouble,
they have individual seats.
Space, in the front and in the rear,
is appreciably greater. There is more
headroom in the rear. The slightly "stepped" shape of the backs of the front
seats gives rear-seat passengers even
more room to move.
The seats, with their steel spring
cores and "breathing" covers, are soft
enough to be comfortable, but sufficiently firm to give the body support on
long journeys and to ward off fatigue.
Both front seats are electrically
adjustable to eight different positions,
for perfect comfort.
Exclusivity is also expressed by the
standard of interior equipment in the
two coupe models. Seats covered in a
new, striped velour, available in eight
different colours. As optional extras, you

can choose from velour in three different

two-colour combinations or leather in
eight colours.
Electrically-operated windows are
standard equipment, the rear side windows can be operated from either the
front or rear of the passenger compartment.
When the doors have been closed
and the ignition turned on, the seat belts
are automatically moved towards the
driver and front-seat passenger by
means of belt-guides. They can, therefore, be fastened even more easily.
When the belts have been fastened,
the belt-guides return to the rest position,
on the driver's side and on the passenger
side after some thirty seconds.
Another example of the large number of
practical features is the third sun visor,
which is behind the rear-view mirror, so
that a low sun can no longer dazzle the
driver.

"
Available as an optional extra. the eleclro nic automatic lemperalure
control system.

Electrical seat heating is an optional exlra . You cannol always p ark

your car in a garage.

A car can demonstrate its sports-car

attributes in many ways, one of the least
desirable is by excess noise. Not in a
Mercedes coupe, where you can talk to
all of your passengers without raising
your voice, even when travelling at high
speeds.
Double door seals, a bulkhead
between the engine and the passenger
compartment and low noise levels from
the engine and transmission all make
the car more quiet.

In a Mercedes coupe, you are

insulated from traffic-created stress
The "climate" inside the coupe
helps to create that unique feeling of
well-being.just as it does in an S-class
saloon.
This is essentially due to the remarkable electronic "Heatmatic" control
system which allows the temperature to
be adjusted exactly to the required level
- independently for each side of the car.
Driver and front passenger can set
the heating to any temperature between

Wilh this swilch. the fronl seats can be adjusted. eleclrically, lo eight
dilTerenl positions.

16 and 32 C (60-89,6 F). Once the

desired level has been reached, it is, in
principle, maintained, regardless of outside temperature and road speed.
Other features which also contribute are the heating ducts inside the
doors and the advanced ventilation
system with its four-stage booster and
distribution control.
Rear-seat passengers have their
own supply of fresh air, through an
acijustable inlet in the centre console.
Air conditioning (an optional extra)
is, when fitted, integrated into the standard heating and ventilation system. The
cooling, as well as heating, can be preset and controlled automatically and
separately for each side of the car.

Temperature and air-volume control

Instrument cluster
centred in dri ver's
field of vision
:..,.__ Eleclrically operaled windows
Rotary l ight-switch wilh 6 functions

Combination switch with 7 functions

For l he d river: cannot be con fused. accessible only 10 him

Ergonomically designed instruments,

positioned to reduce driver-stress
Today, a driver has to concentrate
even harder, whether on long journeys
or in congested city traffic.
Ergonomically designed, logicallypositioned instruments and controls go a
long way toward minimising the inevitable stress.
Switches and levers that are obvious in their function and cannot be
confused one with another. Instruments
that can be read at a glance, by day or
by night.
In a Mercedes, there are, as a
matter of principle, no technical gimmicks to distract the driver and to go
wrong.
On the contrary, to benefit the
driver, Mercedes-Benz have been
endeavouring to reduce the number of
controls. One example of this is the
combination lever on the steering
column, which operates the indicators,
the three-speed wipers, the screen-

-llil-- Front-seal healing. 2 temperatures (optional)

Eleclrically adjustabl e
nearside mirror (optional)

For d river and fronl passenger: wilhin

equally close reach of bolh

washer, the headlamp flasher and the

dipswitch.
Tempomat (cruise control) is an
optional extra which contributes towards stress-minimisation on longjourneys. It will keep the car at any pre-set
speed above 40 km/h (24.8 mph), up
and down hills, until you brake, accelerate or switch off the unit.
The Ter'npomat contributes not
only to greater comfort, but also to
greater fuel economy; you can monitor
this with the fuel-consumption trend indicator.
A central locking system is standard on the new coupe; it is reliable, because it operates on the dual-pressure
principle.

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Fuel consumption related to the gear selected by the four-speed auto

malic transmission.

the engine is cold, the coolant does not

circulate at all. At a temperature of 84 C
(183 F), the thermostat opens part of
the circuit and only at over 100 C
(212 F) is the coolant circuit to the
radiator used.

A balanced relationship between energy input and power output. the

light-alloy VB engine in the Mercedes 500 SEC.

The new coupe is offered with a

choice of either 3.8 or 5-litre light-aIIoy
power units.
These engines have been further
developed, as part of the Mercedes-Benz
Energy Concept, and include many
trend-setting ideas.

Engines with new

fuel-consumption characteristics
The 3.8 litre engine in the 380 SEC
has different bore and stroke dimensions. The compression ratio has been
raised and, with a modified chamshaft,
fuel consumption has been improved.
Maximum torque is produced at only
3250/min (previously 4000/min). It
develops 150 kW (204 DIN/hp) at
5250/min.
In the 500 SEC, the 5-litre engine,
too, has a higher compression ratio and
a modified camshaft, as weII as other
improvements. Maximum torque is produced at 3000/min (previously
3200/min), and it develops 170 kW
(231 DIN/hp) at 4750/min.

The result of all these features is a

lot of power at lower engine speeds,
consequently smooth running, low noise
levels and resistance to wear. Con versely, because of the engine characteristics, their reassuring reserves of power
can be used very quickly.
These common-sense economies
have not been achieved at the expense
of performance, nor of the pleasure you
are entitled to expect from a Mercedes
coupe.
The Mercedes-Benz Energy Concept consists of a large number of interrelated details; here are some further
examples.

Modified cooling system

If an engine can reach its operating
temperature more quickly, there is less
emission of pollutants and fuel consumption is reduced.
To this end, the warming-up time
has been shortened, because the coolant
does not come into use until a higher
temperature has been reached. When

Electronic idling-speed control

When driving in town, the engine
idles, on the average, for 3 1/o of the
time.
Therefore, the new electronic idlingspeed control goes a long way in reducing fuel consumption.
With a warm engine and the transmission in the "Drive" position, this control keeps idling speed down to about
500/min.
In combination with the modified
camshaft and improved fuel atomisation the new control reduces fuel con'
sumption at idling speeds by more
than 40/o.
Hydraulic fan coupling
Because the fan coupling has a
double control system, it comes into use
less often, therefore reducing fuel consumption as well as lowering noise
ievels.
Automatic transmission
with new ratios
Both coupes are fitted with proven
four-speed, torque converter automatic
transmission. The shift-pattern has, as
part of the Mercedes-Benz Energy Concept, been modified to match the higher
ratio of the rear axle.

The new gear selector. with the additional s position.

As a result, the fourth gear has the

effect of an overdrive.
This makes the car even more
economical, the ride even more comfortable, and eliminates jolting when
gears are changed.
The 380 SEC always moves off in
first gear, the 500 SEC pulls away in
second, although first gear can be
engaged by the kick-down.
A new feature on both models is
the addition of position "B" on the gear
selector. This enables the driver to remain in first gear at speeds up to
55-60 km/h (34 - 3 7 mph). This is a
great advantage, for instance when going down steep hills with a trailer; it
allows the driver to make full use of the
engine braking effect, which would be
reduced if the transmission shifted to a
higher gear.

Higher rear axle ratios. One aspect of the Mercedes-Benz Energy

Concept.

New, floating-caliper disc brakes.

the previous models. Lower by 24/o

in the 380 SEC and by 180/o in the
500 SEC.
This, too, contributes to a reduction
in fuel consumption and in noise-levels,
and makes the car more comfortable.

Front suspension, with zero-offset steering. larger-diameter springs and

an improved system of wishbones and torsion bars.

The manoeuvrability of a coupe,

the comfort of a saloon
In the new coupes, the suspension
is similar to that of the S-class saloon.
It has been perfected to a degree
that makes it difficult to visualise further
fundamental changes.
The wheelbase of the coupe is, of
course, slightly shorter. This, together
with the light, yet very accurate powerassisted steering, makes the car even
more manoeuvrable.
A turning circle of only 11.53 metres
(37.8 ft) is the practical benefit of the
wide lock on the front wheels.
Reduced fuel consumption,
improved comfort
To match the characteristics of the
modified engines, the rear axle ratios are
now higher. Ratios in the four-speed
automatic transmission have, in turn,
been changed, to suit the rear axle.
Because of these modifications,
engine speeds are now lower, in every
gear, for the same road speeds, than in

The brakes. Less heat,

less chance of fading
Both coupe models have a dualcircuit, servo-assisted braking system,
with discs on all four wheels. At the
front, newly-designed floating-caliper
disc brakes.
Because the brake-fluid lines are
positioned w ell away from the pads, the
fluid is less likely to become hot.
Diameter of the front discs has
been increased by 8 mm to provide
even greater stability.
The front discs have interior ventilation and there are ventilation rings in the
wheels to dissipate heat more quickly.

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The electronically cont rolled restraint system which includes the

airbag and the belt tensioner.

The longer crumple zone na~ progressive degrees of rigidity. giving

the greatest possible protection in head-on and rear-end collisions.

The anti-lock braking system {ABS). available as an optional extra.

Belt-guides autom atically move the seat-bells towa rds the d river and
front -seat passenger.

Active safety
The mature suspension system,
with its great reserves, is the basis of
active safety.
Accurate straight-line stability, no
excessive tendencies towards oversteer
or understeer in corners, light yet positive steering, meticulously tuned suspension and damping enable the driver to
react quickly, prevent the car from
breaking away suddenly and ensure
safe road-holding.
Another substantial contribution towards active safety is the anti-lock braking system, which is available as an
optional extra.
Irrespective of road conditions, it
prevents locking of the wheels under
hard braking. So, steering response is
retained, even while braking.
When used by a considerate driver,
the power reserves of the eight-cylinder
models can be activated within split
seconds and serve as an element of
active safety.

Passive safety
Mercedes-Benz have for more than
forty years been pioneering the development and the further refinement of
safety systems.
Further proof of their innovation in
the vitally important field of passive
safety is illustrated by the electronicallycontrolled restraint system, elements of
which
are the airbag and the belt ten.
s1oner.
Mercedes-Benz are the first manufacturers to offer, as optional extras,
these two units, which further reduce the
risk of injury to front-seat occupants in
a head-on collision.
The airbag and belt tensioner are
complementary to the inertia-reel threepoint seat-belts.
The airbag inflates, cushions the
driver and then deflates again - all
within fractions of a second, even before
the driver can register what is happening.

A few milliseconds after a severe

impact, the seat-belt tensioner pulls the
belt tight against the passenger.
The front section gives protection
against the effects of impacts in three
progressive stages. The first zone yields
most easily; it reduces the impact of the
collision, sometimes for the occupants of
the other car as well.
The second zone, the engine area,
offers increasing resistance to deformation, and the third zone, the passenger
safety-cell, has a very high degree of
rigidity.
The roof pillars combine with the
front section of the roof itself into a very
strong, integrated unit which offers protection, should the car roII. The pillars
are specially reinforced, there are tubes
inside, a protective measure which is
especially suitable for the coupe shape.
Floor and sides are extremely rigid.
Door frames, doors, hinges and locks
form an integrated protective shield
which prevents excessive distortion in

the event of a lateral impact, as well as

avoiding jamming of the doors.
The fuel-tank is located in a wellprotected area, over the rear axle; there
is a bulkhead between it and the passenger compartment.
Protection for other road users includes the driver-controlled headlamp
beam adjustment, and the windscreen
wipers which are recessed when not in
use.

The new coupe

Progressive engineering and
traditional Mercedes virtues
To drive the new coupe is to experience the quality of engineering and to
enjoy the elegant styling which establish
new standards for years to come.
The further development of signifi-
cant concepts and their realisation in
practical terms has been achieved responsibly and economically.
Continuous research on the Mercedes-Benz Energy Concept has resulted
in appreciable reductions in the consumption of energy and materials.
And the traditional Mercedes virtues still remain: quality in design, materials and workmanship; durability and
very high re-sale values.
Long life
Contribution to value retention are
the additional protection against corrosion and the use of light-alloy and
plastic components that do not rust.
Plastic liners are fitted under the
front wheel arches as protection against
damage by salt and stones.
A protective coating on all front
sections susceptible to damage from
gravel, etc. The undersic!e of the floor is
coated with a lighter, but highly resistant
material.
Efficiency and durability of the exhaust system have been generally improved. The sections between the silencers are in high-grade steel.
Hollow sections (which become inaccessible after assembly) receive a
coating of adhesive wax with special
"creeping" properties.
Safety and value-retention,
through after-sales service
By the utilisation of every possible
technological process, Mercedes cars
have become even more reliable, even
easier to maintain, and repairs cost even
less.

Quality is not a matter of chance: the latest in technical aids.

Quality is not a m atter of chance: employees trained to perfection.

For example, brake master cylinder, battery, relays and fuses are protected in a compartment under the bonnet. Oil filter, all light bulbs, booster,
cooler and piping of the heating system
are read.Uy accessible or easy to remove.
Body panels, especially at the front, can
be repaired individually, to save cost.
Front wings are bolted on. Longitudinal
profiles divide the roof into sections, to
reduce the amount of re-spraying,
should it be necessary.

Longer service intervals

Major service only once every
20,000 km (12,500 miles). Proof of reliability, and a contribution to the economy of Mercedes cars.
Servicing can be carried out by any
one of 1,200 dealers in Germany; there
are 5,000 service points world-wide.

"
MERCEDES-BENZ

THE MERCEDES-BENZ
S-CLASS COUPES
MODELS
420 SEC, 500 SEC,
560 SEC

THE TRADITION
OF
EXCLUSIVITY.

Please note that thi s brochure may

contain details which do not
co nform to vehicles a imported
into this country. For .IC specifi cations please refer to th e separate
spcci fi cation sh eet at the back of
the book.

Th e large coupes with the three-pointed star.

One of the major traditions in the history of
the car. And one of the few that have remained alive and still valid. A concept that
has expressed the highest standards of the
Mercedes-Benz mar que - for decades.
Time an d again, Mercedes coupes have
been the high points in international automotive design. Symbols ofexclusivity, due to
their superiority, their style and their firstclass engineering. Over the page are three
historic examples of this individuality, at its
highest level.

...
l

Mercedes 280 SE 3.5 coupe,

l969;
eight-cylinder i11j<.'ctior1 e11gi11e;
14 7 k(f' (200 hp).

M<1rcedes 300 Sc coupe,

195.5:
.
six-c:yli11d1>r in-li11e i11jectio11 engine;
129 krf' (175 hp).

Mercedes 32011 coupe,

1938;
si.xcxlinder i11-lille carburettor engin~,
57 kW (78 hp).

THE INDIVIDUAL
SHAPE OF CONTEMPO RY MOTORING
REFINEMENT.
The S-class coupes: the entire engineering
potential ofMercedes-Benz at its most exclu sive-in its most refined form. Sporty, elegant
expressions of supreme lead ership in
modern automotive design. A distinctive, individualistic an d b alanced shape.
Highly positive in its appear ance. Rare
an d eyecatching. A clean, sleek sh ape;
powerfuJ lines. An accent on performance,
with a radiator star similar to that of the SL
models. Long side windows, with no centre
pillar to interrupt the visibility.
Dynamic motoring, yet refreshingly
light steering. A su perbly successful combi natio n of sporty, exclu sive style and automotive practicality.
The dynamic appearance is matched by
the power from the V-8 engines. An ideal and
highly efficient combination of large swept
volume within the right number of cylinders.
Dynamic performance, for sheer motoring pleasure - with a suspension system
which turns the power into relaxing active
safety.A driving position withoutgimmicksfor maximum comfort and alertness, for
excellent steering control, even when driving fast. A feeling of ease which match es the
style of the car.
Then there are the classic virtues.
Durability, reliability; passive safety which
sets the standards worldwide. Exclusivity,
even in day-to-day motoring, and, as part of
its contemporary concept, economy and
environmental acceptability.

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The taut shape of the coupe; lower than the

saloon, and wider - with an even lower
centre of gravity. The wheelbase is almost ten
centimetres shorter, for even better
manoeuvrability.
An attractive symbol of classic coupe
elegance; fully retractable side windows
without a centre pillar to interrupt visibility.
The rear sid e windows are shaped to integrate smoothly into the flowing lines of the
rear section of the bodywork - typical coupe
lines.
The elegance is totally in unison with
the purpose of the shape. Functionality and
practical benefit in every detail, with scarcely
any wind noise, even at high speeds. An in-

terior that does not heat up excessively in the

sun, despite the aerodynamically shaped
body. Excellent all-round visibility. A bonnet that slopes up towards the windscreen,
with fully recessed wipers. Water deflectors
on the front pillars and along the roof.
Large ligh t units, ribbed at the r ear to
prevent the accumulation of dirt. Fully integrated, flexible bumper system. Low aprons
front and rear reduce lift forces even further.
And 15-inch wheels with attractive hub caps,
with light-alloy wheels as an optional extra.

PERFORMANCE
AT A NEW,
EXCLUSIVE LEVEL.
Three models, one engine concept - the
range of proven lightweight V-8 engines.
Masterpieces of modern design. With cubic
capacities of 4.2, 5 and 5.6 litres in the three
models: - 420 SEC, 500 SEC and 560 SEC.
One aspect shared by all of them is their
further-developed power-potential. New,
dyna1nic performance figures; significant
increases in power. An effortlessly-available
220 kW (300 hp) in the 560 SEC, for
example. Power that you can experience in
the acceleration - true dynamic power.
With Mercedes, the d ecisive factor is
the way the performance is delivered. Maj estically smooth yet instantly responsive power
at all engine speeds. And, therefore, in all
situations. The most important factor is th e
large swept volume, rather than the number
of cylinders. The superior "breathing"
ensures h igh torque, even at low engine
speeds. Providing performance-capability
righ t where it is most needed.
This adds up to sparkling yet smooth
motoring pleasure and active safety- and not
just when you h ave the road to yourself.
Sporty dynamism which is barely audible exceptional ride comfort, with powerful
acceleration that d oes not come at the
expense ofhigh fuel consumption even when
the power is used to the full. Because, today
more than ever b efore, first-class engineering also means maximum utilisation of energy.
A further contribution to low fuel consumption is the electronic control of a number of basic functions: the ignition and injec-

tion systems are microprocessor-controlled.

This means constant, automatic an d precise
adjustment of the ignition timing an d the
mixture formation under all driving an d load
conditions and in all throttle positions.
420 SEC: 170 kW (231 hp) at 5400/ min.
Fuel con sumption: 15.l litres per 100 km on
the urban cycle,8.7 litres per lOOkm at a constant 90 km/ h, 10.7 litres per 100 km/ h at a
con stant 120 km/ h.
500 SEC: 195 kW (265 hp) at 5200/ min. Fuel
consumption: 15.8 litres per 100 km on the
urb an cycle, 8.8 litres per 100 kn1 at a constant 90 km/h, 11.1 litres per 100 km/h at a
con stant 120 km/h.
550 SEC: 220 kW (300 hp) at SOOO/n1in.
Fuel consumption: 16.8 litres per 100 km on
the urban cycle, 10.5 litres per 100 km at a
constant 90 km/h, 12.7 litres per 100 km at a
constant 120 km/ h.
So, engineering leadership in the
engines, as well. Matured over millions of
kilometres of testing - and therefore highly
reliable and with legendary durability, even
wh en used hard .

TOTAL
CONTROL.
The big coupe is a car for drivers who really
enjoy driving. Its character and performance
are distinctly sporty and the suspension is a
fundamental part of the concept: a total synthesis of stability, ride comfort and active
safety. Relaxed control however hard you
drive. Highly accurate steering, even when
cornering at speed. The unexpected can he
handled with consummate ease, and even
extremely bad road surfaces are comfortably
neutralised. You can actually feel the engineering maturity of the car- the "fine-tuned"
springs and shock-absorbers, the low centre
of gravity, the remarkably wide track. The
highest standards of manoeuvrability, effortless steering control, even in crowded city
traffic - due to the relatively small turning
circle and the specially light Mercedes
power-assisted steering.
Standard on the 560 SEC: self-levelling
rear suspension and a limited-slip differential. Optionally available on the 420 SEC and
500 SEC.
The transmission and the braking system continue to set standards ofengineering.
Highly efficient dual-circuit servo-b raking
system. Fixed-caliper disc brakes on all four
wheels. ABS as stand ard. A brake booster for
precise, gentle yet highly efficient braking
power. Low-profile 15-inch wheels for maximum stability, emphasising the car's powerful, elegant app earance. All three coupe
models are fitted as standard with fou rspeed automatic transmission. With two dif-

ferent shift programmes, for a more dynamic

style or with the transmission shifting up earlier, for more economical driving.
ASR: electronically-controlled automatic
acceleration skid control.
ASR allows the excellent handling qualities
of these exclusive cars to be used to the full,
even under more difficult conditions. On
b ends, when taking evasive action, when
accelerating hard, or when moving off uphill,
perhaps on snow. The driven wheels do not
spin and the car does not skid off course, even
if the driver accelerates too hard. With the
"electronic accelerator pedal", each driven

wheel is automatically given only as much

power as th e road adhesion can take and convert into forward movement. This further
improves active safety, in all driving situations.
The new and essential aspect of ASR is
that it works electronically and automatically. It engages and disengages itself - but
only whenever, and for as long as, it is
actually needed. The electronics make the
correct decision in all circun1stances,
without any effort from the driver. An indicator in the speedometer tells him that the system has b een activated, so he can then adjust
his driving to suit the conditions.
ASR and ABS should go together as a
system. Then the wheels do not spin when
cornering or accelerating, an d do not lock
when braking. An ideal combination.

A SPACIOUS
ATMOSPHERE OF
ELEGANCE.
Exclusivity - even in everyday motoring the special Mercedes coupe concept. For this
reason, a pleasing in terior and a clear information system determine the design of the
driving position. Non-dazzle instruments
and gauges, with all the controls ergonomically designed and positioned, within easy
reach and easy to operate. A seating position
designed for comfort at the wheel. For
relaxed concentration and alertness on long
JOUrneys.
Full con trol of the car, stress-relief and
motoring pleasure. The steering wheel and
the gear selector are leather-covered. The
two front seats give clecid edly positive lateral
support-without limiting freedom of movement. Firm, yet very comfortable seat-springing. Electrically-adjustable seats (and headresuaints) for the driver and the front passenger. Memory feature as an optional extra
(standard on the 560 SEC), to store two seat
positions.
When th e ignition is switched on, belt
guides offer the seat belts in a position convenient for front-seat occupants.
Further examples of detail-features include monitor displays for fuel, engine oil,
coolant, screen-wash fluid and for all the
exterior light bulbs. Timely warning of wear
on the front brake pads. Screen-wash system,
screen-wash nozzles and exterior mirror
heated. Courtesy light with reading lamp for
front-seat passenger. Central lockin g with
multi-point operation.

The impression of space inside the b ig

coupes. Firstly, th e sporty, elegant overall
impression with the sleek contours of the
side win dows, uninterrupted by any centre
pillar. Clean lines, the typical, individualistic
atmosphere of a coupe, yet still generous
freedom of movement, for rear-seat passengers too.
The interior: a superb blend of modern
styling, subtly built-in safety features, highquality materials and meticulous workmanship. Fully developed details, totally integrated into an overall entity, giving a complete impression of style, as typified by the
generous and tasteful incorporation of fine
woods. The feeling of security is in1111ediately
apparent, as is the dyna1nic character of this
h igh-performance car - the most exclusive
expression of Mercedes con1fort for long
JOUrneys.
Another high point of the interior
design is the pair of attractively-shaped, individually-con toured rear seats. Folding
centre armrest. Seat belt buckles recessed yet
. easy to reach. And an example of climate
technology that has been thoroughly
refined: an electronically-controlled h eating
system with a recirculating-air facility; this
can be used either for faster heating of the
interior or to reduce the amount of ambient
air used, in the event of troublesome dust or
exhaust fumes.
The range of optional extras includes
the airb ag system for the driver and the front
passenger, the trip computer, an electrically-

operated rear-screen blind and the Mercedes

Sound System, with specially co-ordinated,
balanced technology.
And further optional extras which are
standard on the 560 SEC; heated nearside
exterior nlirror, sun visors with illuminated
mirrors, electrically-adjustable steering
colunm (with memory), electric tilting/ sliding sunroof. Air con ditioning, stereo radio/
cassette player, automatic aerial.

WIDER
DIMENSIONS
TO SAFETY.

A masterpiece by Mercedes designers. The

comprehensive safety system is integrated
almost invisibly into the elegant shape.
There is n o other car in the world that
offers such a high degree of safety. The
knowledge of proven reliability, the active
safety features which include keeping the
driver fit an d alert. And above all the exemplary passive safety system. Genuine protection, sh ould the worst come to the worst- but
also a relaxed feeling of comfort.
The safety system. For Mercedes, this
means the comprehensive and fully-integrated interaction of many protective features. Throughout the whole car, to meet any
contingency. Only in a Mercedes is there a
system this compr eh ensive - d ue to decades
of research an d development work, with a
unique level of investment. A huge asset for
the driver - developed in part because the
big coupes often cover considerably more
kilometres per year than other cars.

Pre-determined deformable crumple

zones front and rear. The fuel tank is located
in a safe position above the rear suspension
assembly. Despite the coupe design, an
extremely strong, rigid passenger compartment. Highly rigid along the sides and in the
roof section. Electronically-controlled belt
tensioners on both front seats as standard.
Mercedes safety steering with a deformable
corrugated tube, steering wheel with impact
absorber and padded boss. Instrument panel
and all internal controls designed to yield on
i1npact. Also, preventive features such as the
monitor light for the entire exterior ligh ting
system.
And a fu rther example of pace-setting
Mercedes safety: as an optional extra, the airbag system for additional protection. Now
with an additional airbag for the front
passenger. Logical application of matured
electronics.

TOP UALITY
FROM CONTINUOUS
DEVELOPMENT.

The exclusivity ofthe big Mercedes coupes is

an enduring ch aracteristic. In engineering
terms too, due to designs which will set the
standards for many years to come. Due to a
shape which determines the style for their
class; sporty elegance which points the way
forward. And due to their dynamic yet timeless appeal.
The Mercedes principle "committed to
the best" is particularly relevant to the cars.
The new range, introduced in 1985, is a practical example - further-developed engines
for all models, with trend -setting electronic
control systems; the more powerful style of
the exterior lines, an d the further refinement
by the inclusion of important new features,
from the electronic b elt-tensioners on both
front seats through the monitor for all exterior lights to details such as the unique
electric adj ustment of the front h eadrestraints. And now the increased power output of all three coupe models.
Continuous Mercedes progress goes

together with improvements in quality and

value retention. There is no either/ or.
Lighter materials are used only where they
also provide increased strength. New, b etter
materials are only applied where they
increase durability. Electronic produ ction
control and advanced testing method s to
provid e even greater precision. Internationally respected research work such as the
use of the driving simulator - allowing experiments which were not even conceivable a few
years ago. Computer-aided design; materials
tested by data-controlled torture tracks,
climate chambers which reproduce extreme
conditions. All this creates the certainty that
innovation also signifies the further development of classical quality.
Nowadays, only manufacturers who
combine exclusivity with a responsible
approach can lay claim to first-class engineering. So the big Mercedes coupes are
models of economy. The economy of the
new, more powerful en gines, the maturity of

THE WIDE,
PERSONALISED
NGE.

the design, the maintenance-free 1najor components and the long service intervals make
the cars exceptionally practical.
A degree of reliability which minimises
ti).lle off the road and unexpected costs. Corrosion protection also fulfils the highest
standards - electrolytically-galvanised sheetsteel panels, electronically-tested cavity sealing, a bodyshell protection system with multilayer paint treatment. And value retention,
due to the high standard of Mercedes-Benz
service - with around 1000 service points in
Germany and over 5000 all over the world.
With fully trained, dedicated p ersonnel and
r apid parts supply. Mercedes customer service also contributes to the reputation of
these exclusive cars.

1 The Mercedes paint system

is applied in one of the most,
up-lo-date fa cilities in the
The
subsequent
'world.
polis hing, followed by thorough mantwl .finishing, gives
the cars theirflnal lustre.
2 The body , computer-controlled precision. Yet there
are still "p er.~onal" checks at
the end, by eye and by touch.

3 Advanced technology in
combination w ith mcunwl
skills. For example, w hen.fitting the Ji 11ely-rnade wood
components.

The exclusivity is inherent and the individualistic coupe shape is matched by fully
comprehensive equipment and trim. Electric
seat adjustment, for instance, and central
locking that can be operated from b oth doors
and from the boot. A generous standard specification, an asset to any coupe owner, following the Merced es principle of maximum
practical benefit from bumper to bumper.
Beyond this, customers can decide for
themselves what they, personally, prefer in
the way of extras. They can decide on the
specification of their own car in finalising
their own ideas of comfort and convenience.
From a range of optional extras which includes a car telephone, the headlamp wash/
wipe system (standard on the 560 SEC) and

automatic climate control, to high-quality

leather upholstery which you can specify for
the top 5.6-litre model at no extra charge.
The whole range of individual extras
fulfils Mercedes standards of quality.
Matched to the functionality of the car, right
from the design stage, so that they are integrated fully into the overall style.

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BASIC EQUIPMENT
MERCEDES -BENZ 420 SEC, 500 SEC, 560 SEC
I Engine

Mercedes-Benz power-assisted steering with steering

damper. Dish-shaped steering wheel with impact absorber. Safety steering column, with corrugated tu bing in
lower section; steering gear box located behind front axle.
Steering column electrically adjustable for reach available as an optiona l extra (standard on 560 SEC with
memory feature).

additional reading lamp for the front-seat passenger; rear

courtesy light; illumination for ashtray, glove compartment,
heating and ventilation controls, rotary light switch, gear
indicator on shift gate, boot light. Warning buzzer which
sounds when headlights have not been turned off.
Optional extras (standard on 560 SEC): exit lights in the
doors and headlamp wash/wipe system, combined with
windscreen wash/wipe system (only when headlights are
switched on).

rev counter. Monitor lamps for main b eam, indicators

(separate for left and right sides), hazard warning lights,
battery charge, parking brake, brake fluid level, brake pad
wear, ABS, rear fog light, reserve fuel, engine oil level,
coolant level, screen-wash fluid level; lamp defect
monitor for all exterior lights; flashing "fasten seat belts"
symbol; monitor lamps for airbag and ASR.
Optional extra: exteriortemperaturedisplay(standard on
560 SEC).

I Bodywork

I Seats

I Miscellaneous

AU-steel monococque bodyshell; light-alloy bonnet and

boot lid; two easy-to-close doors with semi-recessed
handles; safety bodyshell with rigid passenger compartment; fuel tank located above rear axle assembly; energyabsorbing front and rear sections, consisting of large
crumple zones; plastic bumpers with energy-absorbing,
self-regenerating foam core; low-reaching, steeply angled
front and rear aprons for reducing lift forces; smooth-surfaced side mouldings to protect against minor damage;
plastic-panelled door sills; superb anti-corrosion features; safety-glass windows; optimum visibility all round;
separate compartment for relays, fuses etc.
Electric tilting/sliding sunroof with built-in air deflector
as an optional extra (standard on 560 SEC).

Front: two body-contoured individual seats with bucketseat character; folding centre armrest; seat reach, height,
backrest and head-restraint on both seats electrically
adjustable by means ofsymbol switches on the doors (560
SEC with memory); two three-point inertia-reel seat belts
with automatic belt guides and belt-tensioners; vacuum
locking mechanism for backrests.
Rear: bench seat with individual-seat character, folding
centre armrest and oddments tray with extra cushion
placed in it; two three-point inertia-reel seat belts.
Velour upholstery. Optional extras: leather or amaretta
upholstery (at no extra cost on 560 SEC); pre-programmed front seat positions (memory feature, standard
on 560 SEC).

I Windows

I Heating and ventilation

Front axle: double wishbones with anti-dive control. Rear

axle: diagonal swing axle with anti-lift control; 500 SEC
and 560 SEC also fitted with anti-squat control; differential case located by flexible mountings.
Optional extras: self-levelling rear suspension and limited-slip differential (standard on 560 SEC).

Front and rear screens made oflami nated safety glass; rear
screen electrically-heated; side windows made of singlelayer safety glass; tinted glass all round, with untinted
windscreen available instead, for no extra cost; electric
windows; electrically-heated screen-wash system with
two heated twin nozzles on the bonnet; two windscreen
wipers, with two speeds and intermittent control, operated
by means of the combination switch on the steering wheel.

I Rims and tyres

I Locks

420 SEC and 500 SEC: forged steel-plate disc wheels, rim
size 7 Jxl5 H2; tyre size 205/65VR15, with fibreglassreinforced polyamide hub caps in astral silver.
Optional extras: forged light-alloy rims of the same size.
560 SEC: forged light-alloy rims, size 7 J x15H2 and
tyres, size 215/65 VR 15.

Conical-pin door catches with main and safety positions

for both doors; lockable by key and from inside; boot lock;
steering wheel lock combined with ignition lock and
starter non-repeat unit; glove compartment lock; central
locking system which also includes fuel tank cap lock;
master key system with four-way key. Anti-theft warning
system (EDW) available as an optional extra.

Continuous, draught-free warm or cool air flow; electronic in terior temperature control, operating independently
of driving speed, able to keep pre-selected temperature
largely constant when in heating mode; air distribution to
windscreen, side windows and both front and rear footwells; heating separately controllable for left and right
sides; large fresh-air outlet in the centre of the dashboard,
finely adj ustable to all sides; heated rear screen; fourstage radial blower with main air flap; switch for recirculating air.
Optional extras: Aircooditioniog(standard on 560 SEC),
automatic climate control.

Loudspeaker covers left and right in dashboard; ashtray

with cigar lighter; dashboard and centre console with
burred walnut veneer; doors with open door pockets and
padded grab handles; first-aid kit in parcel shelf; lockable
glove compartment; oddments tray between the two front
seats; two padded sun visors, swivellable to one side, with
metal safety mirror on passenger side on 420 SEC and 500
SEC, illuminated vanity mirror on passenger side on 560
SEC; interior rear-view mirror with anti-dazzle position;
grab handles on roof frame, one for front passenger, one
each side in rear, both flexible and with clothes hooks;
pull-out ashtray in centre console; electrically-heated offside rear-view mirror, adjustable from inside and with
dazzle-reducing mirror glass (on 560 SEC also nearside
exterior mirror, heated and electrically-adjustable, with
dazzle-red ucing glass); steering wheel and gear selector
leather-covered; fine velour compartment in the spare
wheel recess. Additionally on 560 SEC, "Becker Mexico
electronic" radio/cassette player with automatic aerial,
speakers left and right in dashboard and two rear
speakers; higher-capacity battery.
Optional extra: airbags for driver and front passenger.

Steering

420 SEC: light-aUoy V-8 engine 4196 cm 3 cubic capacity;

fuel injection; 170 kW 5400 min.
500 SEC: light-alJoy V-8 engine 4973 cm 3 cubic capacity;
fuel injection; 195 kW a 5200 min.
560 SEC: light-alloy V-8 engine 5547 cm3 cubic capacity;
fuel injection; 220 kW at 5000 min.
Multi-functional mixture formation and ignition system,
microprocessor-controlled; anti-knock sensor; fuel cutoff on the overrun; electronic idle speed control; diagnostic socket; hydraulic valve clearance compensation;
engine located by three rubber mountings; two hydraulic
vibration dampers; visco-drive fan.

I Transmission
Mercedes-Benz torque-converter 4-speed automatic with
programme selector and B position, gear selector on the
centre console.
Optional extras: Tempomat cruise control (standard on
560 SEC); acceleration skid control (ASR).

I Suspension
Front and rear pairs of wheels each have two coil springs,
one anti-roll bar, two single-tube gas-filled shock-absorbers.

I Axles

I Signalling system
Self-cancelling indicators with finger-tip contact for overtaking. operated by the combination switch on the steering wheel; hom; headlight flasher; brake lights; hazardwarning lights.
9J>tional extra: two-tone hom (standard on 560 SEC).

DIMENSIONS
420 SEC

500 SEC

560 SEC

A Overall height at kerb weight

1407 mm

1407 mm

1412 mm

B Overall width

1828 mm

1828 mm

18.28 mm

4935mm

4935mm

4935mm

D Wheelbase

2850mm

2845mm

2845mm

El Track width, front

1555 mm

1555 mm

1555 mm

E2 Track width, rear

1527 mm

1527 mm

1527 mm

F Steering wheel - driver's seat backrest1)

478mm

478mm

478mm

G Seat height. front2)

960mm

960mm

935mm

H Driver's backrest - rear-seat backrest1)

612mm

612mm

612mm

J Seat height, rear2)

K Width at hip level, front

932mm

932mm

914mm

1398 mm

1398 mm

1398 mm

L Width at shoulder heigh t, front

1454mm

1454 mm

1454mm

M Width at hip level, rear

1348mm

1348 mm

1348 mm

N Width at shoulder heigh t, rear

1376 mm

1376 mm

1376mm

I)

Overall length

Dimensions vary according to seat position

2)

Without sunroof

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