INFO GUIDE: 1993 - 1999 Mercedes C140 420, 500 and 600 Coupes

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If you’re a Mercedes S-Class coupe enthusiast, then this page should provide some interesting reading, and we certainly welcome additional information to bolster this page as a reference for other enthusiasts. This guide provides detailed facts and observations covering the evolution of the 140 series Mercedes S-Class coupe (model designation “C140”) through its short production run from late 1992 to 1998.1 Where appropriate, a number appears in superscript referring to the relevant information source / reference in the final section of this guide.

The 140 series S Class received a mixed reception following its launch, particularly in the European market where its size has always been controversial. However, this billion dollar engineering project has established itself over the subsequent decades as 'King of the S-Class'. The 140 is often referred to as the last over-engineered Mercedes-Benz car, built to a standard with little regard to cost. It introduced a plethora of technological, comfort, quality and safety innovations, many of which became standard features on vehicles as much as 20 years later, but some of which have never been seen on a production car since.

Development of the coupe derivative commenced in 1985, with the intention to launch the car only several years later. With the Saloon launch delayed by engineering and cost challenges, the coupe launch was also set back, and a final choice for the exterior design was only settled in 1987. It wasn’t until January 1992 that the coupe finally premiered at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, a year after the sedan launch. The European premiere took place two months later at the Geneva Motor Show, and production of the first coupes commenced in September 1992.2

At 5.065 metres (199.41 in) long, the C140 is the largest S Class coupe ever built. In typical Bruno Sacco style, its distinct shape reflects a softer and enlarged evolution of the C124, particularly from the rear and side perspectives. The front end retained the genetics of Sacco’s sporty C126 coupe, with a broad grille containing a large central emblem, and shorter headlamps pushed to the corners - but now also wrapping over the top of the hood.

C140 production and build numbers:

With just over 26,000 units built globally3, C140 production remains one of the lowest volume production coupes in Mercedes’ recent history. By comparison, its predecessor (the C126) had a production of close to 75,000 units.4 The C140’s successor (the C215) totaled 47,984 units.5.

Production of the 500 V8 and 600 V12 coupes ran from September 1992 through to September 1998 (Confirmed by Daimler AG website and google play book).6 In March 1994, the smaller 420 V8 was introduced to the coupe, but only in selected markets. The 420 ceased production slightly earlier than its larger capacity siblings, in August 1998.7 A replacement for the C140 was not introduced to the USA until the 2000 model year. Therefore, excess 140 S-Class stock manufactured in 1998 were sold in the US as 1999 model year cars.8 

The following breakdown of models has been confirmed by several sources9:

Model Number built
S420 / CL420 2,496
500SEC / S500 /CL500 14,953
600 SEC / S600 / CL600 8,573
Production total 26,022

 

 

 

 

 


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1. Badging, bumpers and colour schemes
Two tone silver Mercedes C140 grey.png Click to enlarge
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C140 exterior badging:

  • Model badges were fitted to the left top of the trunk lid, and there were three model designations throughout production, including:​

- SEC

​Early models up to June 1993 were badged as the 500SEC or 600SEC, continuing that name from the previous generation C126 S Class coupe. The 420 was never badged as an SEC due to its later launch date.

- S

Mid generation models from June 1993 to June 1996 were badged S420, S500 and S600. 

- CL

Later vehicles from June 1996 until the end of production were badged CL420, CL500 and CL600.

  • V12 models had a “V12” badge fitted at the base of the rear window pillar.
  • All models had a large star emblem built into the centre of the front grille, and small round Mercedes Benz crest badge on the hood above the grille. A star emblem was also fitted on the centre top of the trunk above the number plate area.

 

C140 bumpers, flank panels and colour schemes:

  • Bumpers and flank panels were made from a polyamide material (heavy duty plastic substitute).2
  • The C140 was available in either single tone or two tone colour schemes up to June 1996, with single tone available thereafter.3 (ie. flank and bumper apron panels were a different colour to the main body above the apron line). After this date, only single colour schemes were available. Presumably, special order colour schemes may have been available at all times as an exception to this rule.4 For more details on the colour combinations available, please refer to the paint colour section of this guide.
  • Up until May 1996, C140s in markets outside of the USA and Canada had a reversing sensor system that used metal rods that protruded from the rear corners of the car when reverse was engaged. Only rear sensors were fitted to these earlier cars. The USA / Canadian markets cars seem to have continued to receive the protruding rod system until some time later, possibly up to late 1996 or early 1997.5
  • From June 1996 in markets outside of the USA and Canada, vehicles received a new parktronic system with the distance sensors built into both the front and rear bumpers. The USA and Canadian markets received the system from late 1996 / early 1997 (the precise timing needs more research). The later cars had six individual sensors on the front bumper, and four on the rear bumper, and also had distance indicator LED lights integrated into the dashboard and on a new rear centre overhead lamp (placed for ease of use in the line of sight of the rear view mirror). See the interior sections of this guide for further details.
  • The lower front air dam vent also received a change in design when the sensor bumpers were fitted. The earlier cars had 3 horizontal slats running the length of the air dam, while the later vehicles had a single horizontal slat.
  • Vehicles outside of the USA / Canada had a flat plastic bracket area fitted to the front centre of the bumper, providing a mounting position for the front number plate. Some USA vehicles (likely, in states where front plates are required), had a smaller version of the plastic bracket (shorter but deeper to suit the US plate design). However, the vast majority of US and Canadian cars were not fitted with a front number plate mounting area.6
2. Body accessories, glass and lighting
Mercedes C140 Coupe s500 sunroof moon roof glass images.jpg Click to enlarge
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Body accessories & features:

  • Front grille: All C140s were fitted with a 7-slat aluminium grille, with a metallic silver-grey finish. A 2-slat grille is available as a rarely fitted aftermarket option. See images for reference.
  • Trunk pop-out handle: Prior to June 1995, the trunk pop-out handle was black plastic. From June 1995, the trunk pop-out handle was chrome.1 (Benzworld.org)
  • Rear external antenna: An external antenna was fitted to many cars, located on the rear lefty side mudguard. The antenna supposedly performs a combined function for both the radio and Cell phone (if optioned). However, we have observed several cell phone optioned cars without antennas, this section of the guide needs more review due to some inconsistencies noticed. From our research, I note the following, which should be interpreted as observations rather than rules:
    • Where no external antenna was fitted, the antenna is believed to have been integrated into the rear windscreen.
    • From a large number of vehicles observed, all US and Canadian delivered vehicles appear to have been fitted with an external antenna.
    • Early vehicles in markets outside of the USA/Canada (up to and including 1996) are a mixed bag. The majority of vehicles observed with 1996 build dates have an external antenna fitted.  
    • From 1997 onward in markets outside of the US/Canada, the antenna was integrated in the rear screen. The integration in the rear screen is stated in a 1997 UK brochure.
    • We have observed vehicles fitted with a telephone, but with no rear antenna, and vice versa.
    • We have spotted bubble domes fitted to cars over a number of years from 1994 to 1997. We suspect this may have been some sort of booster antenna, or alternative to the integrated screen antenna. It doesn’t appear to be associated with the phone option, as we have sighted this on cars without that option.
  • Central locking sensors: Vehicles were fitted with infrared sensors for the central locking system. Sensors were located on the door handles, and below the rear trunk to the left side of the key barrel. The infrared system, according to most forum discussion, is known to be somewhat unreliable.2 A different combination system was offered on some C140s which used a receiver built into the rear view mirror, and deleted the rear trunk sensor. However, we note there are a number of examples of early model C140s (1993-1994) that don’t have the infrared receiver on the trunk. We seek comments on what systems these cars used, and need to undertake further research to clarify if it was as simple as just two systems offered. This is unclear from the research we’ve done.
  • Sunroof: A sunroof was fitted as standard to all C140s. This could be optioned as a moon roof (finished in glass), or a steel top. Most vehicles received the glass top.3
  • Side mirrors: These were electronically folding, and the mirrors were heated.
  • Trunk lid design: Trunk lids on US and Canadian delivered vehicles was of a different design (around the number plate area) to all other markets. The number plate area and trim piece above it was much narrower (## cm vs ##cm], designed to better suit the number plates of those respective markets. Refer to the images where we have included a comparison.
  • Glass:4 
    • The side windows are double glazed. They should have a sticker/print on them in the lower corner with the Mercedes emblem, and stating "SIGLAPLUS" with the code "43 R-001283".
    • The front windscreen should have a sticker/print on it in the lower corner with the Mercedes emblem and reading "SEKURIT" and the code 43 R-001216.
    • The rear screen should have a a sticketr/print on it in the lower corner with the Mercedes emblem and reading "SIGLA" and the code 43 R-001017.
  • Mudflaps: a very rarely sighted option, factory mud flaps were available for the C140, with the Mercedes emblem formed into the plastic (see image).

 

Lighting:

  • Headlamps fitted to US models had an amber reflector built into the side of the lamp. Non-US cars had full clear front lenses without the amber reflector (instead fitted with an amber bulb). Headlights had “Free form reflectors” from 1994. These headlights were 30% brighter than the earlier variants through a reduction in output loss in the lens design. Xenon High Intensity Discharge headlights were fitted to the coupe.5 [Motorbooks Australia].
  • Optional headlamp windscreen wipers / washers were available. These were optioned on a surprisingly large number of cars considering that many markets, such as Australia, would have limited use for them.
  • The front lower apron on the coupe contained fog lamps as standard across all model years and variants.
  • Tail lights on pre-facelift vehicles had orange/amber indicator lenses. Post-facelift cars received clear indicator lenses.
  • Cars prior to June 1996 did not have a 3rd brake light fitted at the base of the rear windscreen on the parcel shelf, unless specifically mandated in that market (such as Australia). There are inconsistencies however, with countries like the UK having cars fitted with and without in specific years. For example, we have seen 1994 UK vehicles with and without the lamp. However, from June 1996, all C140s were fitted with the third parcel shelf lamp.6
  • Numerous markets mandated side indicators/repeaters which appeared on the front mudguards behind the wheel arch. However, some markets (including as the USA) never had these fitted. Amber lenses appeared on vehicles up to mid-1995. On vehicle’s from mid to late-1995, the lenses were clear / white. We have observed vehicles in the following markets with side repeaters fitted:
    • Australia;
    • New Zealand;
    • UK;
    • Japan;
    • German market cars (not all vehicles, but particularly those after mid to late 1995); and
    • Some other EU market cars.
3. Paint colour options
CL500 1996 Polar White paint code 148.png Click to enlarge
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The below colours available on the C140 have been derived from brochures1 in relevant years, and vehicles sighted. Where possible, we have labeled examples of each colour in the gallery for reference. There are a number of assumptions that have been made where it is unclear over what years certain colours were available. There may be differences in availability between different markets which are not accounted for in this list, so please don't regard the below list and dates as a a strict rule. 

Based on our research, colour availability was not necessarily limited to those colours listed in brochures for each year. We have come across clear exceptions to the colours offered in the brochures, and we assume customers were able to special order colours outside of those offered in the brochures. This would make sense for a vehicle of this status, but it is just an assumption. For example, Signal Red (code 568), Calypso Green (Code 279) and Imperial Red (Code 582) are not shown in any of the C140 Brochure we've reviewed, but clearly exist from vehicle's we've seen for sale.

Two tone and single tone paint schemes:

Early cars (up to June 1996 in most markets) were available with the traditional Mercedes-Benz two tone paint schemes. Unfortunately, the data card on many models including the C140 often only specifies the main body colour, and not the secondary (lower) colour. In the list below, we have shown the secondary (lower) colour that was available (if available) with each paint colour on these cars. Most of this information is thanks to Paintscratch.com2 who provide a great reference for some of the combinations that were available in specific years. Note, many of the lower panel colours were a "matt" non-gloss finish.

Any further information on colour availability throughout production would be appreciated - please get in touch by clicking the "contact author" button at the top of this page.

Non-metallic colours:

  • Artic White (Code 147) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Alto Grey (matt) (Code 7700) OR Satograu Metallic (Code 7738). Available up to 1996. Possibly some crossover with Polar White
  • Polar White (Code 149) Commencement of availability not confirmed on the coupe, but possibly some cross-over with Artic White.
  • Glacier White (Code 143) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Marble Grey (matt) (Code 7201). Possibly available throughout all years.
  • Barolo Red (Code 544) - Available up to August 1994.
  • Midnight Blue (Code 904) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Blue Metallic (matt) (Code 5944) OR from 1995 Rio Blue (matt) (Code 5309) OR from 1995 Nautical Blue Metallic (Code 5929) OR from 1996 Midnight Blue (matt) (Code 5214). Available throughout entire production period. 
  • Black (Code 040) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Alto Grey (matt) (Code 7700). Available throughout entire production period.

 

Metallic colours:

  • Brilliant Silver (Code 744) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Atlas Grey metallic (matt) (Code 7181). Available throughout entire production period.
  • Pearl Grey (Code 122) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Alto Grey (matt) (Code 7700). Available up to August 1994.
  • Onyx Grey (Code 721) - Available from August 1994 to 1996.
  • Smoke Silver (Code 702) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Grey metallic (matt) (Code 7176). Available throughout entire production period.
  • Anthracite Grey (Code 172) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Grey metallic (matt) (code 7176). Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Pearl Blue (Code 348) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Andorblau metallic (Code 5301).Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Nautic Blue (Code 929) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Andorblau metallic (Code 5301) OR Blue metallic (matt) (Code 5944). Available up to August 1994.
  • Azurite Blue / Azure Blue (Code 366) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Sodalith Blue (matt) Pearl (Code 5205) OR from 1996 Azure Blue metallic (matt) (Code 5218). Available from August 1994.
  • Beryl / Teal Blue (Code 888) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Lago metallic (Code 6250). Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Crystal Green (Code 256) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Tropengruen metallic (Code 6856). Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Malachite (Code 249) Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Almandine Red / Garnet Red (Code 512) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Navarrarot metallic (Code 3521). Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Rose Wood (Code 485) Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Bornite (Code 481) - Available with contrasting lower body colour ViolettGrau (Code 7166). Possibly available up to 1996. Further research needed.
  • Blue Black (Code 199) - Available up to 1996.
  • Nutria / Sierra Brown (Code 475) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Karminbraun Metallic (Code 8482). Available up to August 1994.
  • Black Pearl / Blue Black (Code 199) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Alto Grey (matt) (Code 7700). Available in 1996 (unsure whether available in other years)
  • Moonstone Grey (Code 721) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Agate Grey (matt) (Code 7202) OR with Moonstone Grey (matt) (Code 7209). Available from 1996 through to end of production.
  • Black Opal (Code 189) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Laud. Grey (matt) (Code 7204) OR Black Opal (matt) (Code 9211). Available from 1996 through to end of production.
  • Brilliant Emerald (Code 269) - Available in 1996 and 1997.
  • Spruce Green (Code 249) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Kiwigruen metallic (Code 6211) OR Tropengruen metallic (Code 6856). Available in 1996 (unsure whether available in other years).
  • Ruby (Code 572) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Ruby (matt) Pearl (Code 3518) OR Corundum Red (matt) metallic (Code 3549). Available in 1996 and 1997.
  • Green Black (Code 189) - Available in 1996 (unsure whether available in other years).
  • Aquamarine Blue (Code 341) - Available from September 1996. (unsure whether available in other years).
  • Tourmaline Green (Code 269) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Agate Green (matt) (Code 6303) OR Brilliant Emerald (matt) (Code 6864). Available in 1996 (unsure whether available in other years).
  • Alexander Green (Code 891) - Available from December 1996. (unsure whether available throughout remaining production).
  • Royal Indigo (Code 339) - Available from 1997 through to end of production. 
  • Aspen Green (Code 891) - Available from 1997 through to end of production.
  • Obsidian Black (Code 197) - Available from 1998.

 

Other colours sighted but not shown in brochures:

  • Signal Red (Code 568) - Available with contrasting lower body colour Tartanrot (Code 3515) OR Korsarrot metallic (Code 3526). Sighted one vehicle in 1993 which could be either combination (unsure).
  • Imperial Red (Code 582) - Only sighted on later C140 vehicles so far (1997 onward).
  • Calypso Green Metallic (Code 279) - Only sighted on later C140 vehicles so far (1997 onward).
4. Wheel options
1992 brochure wheel options Mercedes 140 Coupe.png Click to enlarge
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There were a limited number of factory fitted wheels, and several AMG wheel options available on the C140 from new. There are also many additional varieties from suppliers such as AMG, Brabus and Lorinser outside of the factory options. Below, we detail the standard factory wheel options which are largely based on the availability confirmed in C140 brochures. Below that, we run through the other wheel options available from AMG, Brabus and Lorinser.

 

Mercedes 140 coupe standard wheel options:

There were a number of wheels available on the Mercedes 140 coupe. One method to confirm the original factory fitted wheels on a car is to check the sticker on the inside of the door B-pillar. In some markets, the sticker will confirm the tyre size and specifications / air pressure etc. This will at least allow you to coinfirm whether the vehicle was originally fitted with 16 or 18 inch wheels. We note that these stickers may not have been applied to cars in all markets (but certainly were applied to Australian vehicles).1

  1.  “Flat face” 16-inch 15-slot alloy wheels were supposedly fitted as standard to very early C140s, being part number 140 401 05 02. However, we have sighted very few coupes with these wheels fitted, but there is referenced in a 1992 brochure [and the Google Play book] to these being the factory standard on the early coupes.2 While there is no doubt these wheels were available at the time, (they were fitted to most early W140 sedans), we have only sighted a couple of coupes in our research fitted with these wheels. customers clearly tended to prefer the Alamak wheel (b) below, and these 15-slotters therefore did not last long on the coupe (probably not past the SEC badging).
  2. “Alamak” 16-inch 8-slot alloy wheels appear to be the most common standard wheel fitted to C140 throughout all years (although the Eltanin (c) was very popular from 1994). The Alamak wheel part number is 140 400 09 02. These wheels are 16 x 7.5 ET 51, hub 66.6mm. They were available throughout the car’s entire production run in most markets and is shown on the cover of earlier vehicle log books / service books for 1993 - 1995. Most of these wheels were finished in a standard alloy silver, but some had a chrome finish (which is prone to flaking according to forum discussion). We presume this chrome finish was a dealer or factory option given the number of cars that have had it applied (any clarity / further information on this from readers would be appreciated). Further, forum discussion suggests that from some point in 1995, the finishing process on the clear coat to these wheels was somewhat improved. There is a suggestion that the earlier versions of these wheels had a poor quality clear coat thet degraded / clouded quickly.3 https://www.benzworld.org/threads/w140-buyers-guide.1484464/ In most markets outside of the US, this wheel became optional, with most cars (excluding the USA/Canada) receiving the Eltanin 18 inch wheels as standard from 1994 onward.4
  3. “Eltanin” 18-inch 5-spoke monobloc alloy wheels made by Ronal in Germany, were fitted to many C140s from 1994 onward, being part number 140 401 13 02. The wheels are 18 x 8.5J ET47. It is suggested by [Google Play book] that these wheels were introduced on the coupe in 1994, and premiered at the Geneva Motor Show that same year.5  Note, by observation during our research, these wheels do not appear to have been fitted to any US / Canadian vehicles, and are not documented in US brochures. The wheels do appear in Mercedes brochures from as early as March 1994 in markets outside of the US.6
  4. “Gildun” 16 X 7.5-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels appear to be fitted mostly to the late model US CL vehicles.7 They were available in other markets, such as Australia, on the sedan, and have part number 140 401 14 02, and are again made by Ronal in Germany.  The wheels are 16x7.5 / 7.5J 16 ET 51. Those wheels were mostly finished in a standard silver, but some vehicles again had a chrome finish. Again, we are unsure whether this chrome finish was a dealer or a factory option, and further research is necessary.

 

Mercedes 140 coupe AMG Wheel options

AMG wheels were available as dealer fitted options in some markets and are shown in several brochures for the C140. From our research, we have identified two wheel designs available (with the names taken from a German brochure):

  1. “Styling II AMG Monoblock wheel” – this is a clean 5-spoke wheel, with the spokes further inset into the rim / deeper dish than the Eltanin wheels. "AMG" is embossed in one of the spokes. It is described as the “AMG Monoblock” wheel in the 1998 CL Presentation Guide, which  cover the US market cars. The wheel is also shown fitted to a C140 in a 1998 US brochure, stating “dealer installed accessory 18 inch AMG wheels”. This AMG wheel was a particularly popular option in the US market. It has been sighted on numerous cars from the US and Europe, and is believed to be available in three different sizes confirmed by a 1998 German brochure:
    1. 8.5JX18 ET47 on 255/45 R18
    2. 8.5J X 19 ET46 on 255/40 R19
    3. 9.5J X 19 ET46 on HA 285/35 R19
  2. “Design IV Multi-part AMG wheel” - 8.5J X 18 ET 44 on 255/45 R18. This is a 5 spoke wheel, but with a very flat centre face with sharper edges, and a thick rim incorporating 20 rivets fixing the wheel face to the rim. It is referred to in the German 1996 CL Brochure, directly translated as the “Multi-part AMG wheel”. This wheel also appeared in the UK 1996 brochure as an option, and it appears alongside the Eltanin 18 inch wheel as a standard option in the 1996 and 1997 German brochures. We have observed this wheel applied to several C140s, many of them US market cars.

 

Mercedes 140 coupe Brabus wheel options

There are a few "Brabus" wheels we've seen commonly fitted to teh C140. We are undertaking further research to confirm which of those were available for Brabus enhanced cars at the time. As with Lorinser wheels, there are a number of aftermarket immitation wheels that have been created. 

 

Mercedes 140 coupe Lorinser wheel options

Lorinser enhanced cars had 5-spoke 19 or 20 inch wheels, available with a chrome or standard alloy finish. These are the most accentric of all the wheel options available. Several immitations have been produced by aftermarket suppliers. We are still researching the original offset specifications for these wheels. We attach an image of the wheels as fitted to Michael Jordan's Lorinser C140, and another for reference.

5. Steering wheels, dashboard and consoles
Mercedes C140 coupe full leather steering wheel image.jpg Click to enlarge
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Steering wheels:

Steering wheels fitted to the C140 were all based around the same 4-spoke design with large dual horn centre pad. However, the wheel was available with different rim and centre boss designs and finishes, including:1

  1. Full leather wheel: This is the standard wheel which did not include any timber trim. This wheel was available throughout all years on the C140.
  2. Timber trim wheel 1: From introduction through to around 1997, the C140 was available with an optional wood-rimmed steering wheel. This rim has a 50/50 leather / timber rim (timber applied to the top and base of the rim between the spokes, matching the timber type applied to the interior trim/dash). The wheel is otherwise identical to the full leather wheel noted above at (a), containing the same large centre pad and 4-spoke design.
  3. Timber trim wheel 2: From around 1997, a revised timber-rimmed wheel was introduced as an option.  The rim design with leather and timber remained the same as that offered for the “Timber trim wheel 1” noted above. However, there were changes made to the centre pad, including a gloss finish silver Mercedes badge on a black background, and imitation stitching effect around the edges of the centre pad.

 

Several timber trim options were available. Those are detailed further in the trim colour section of this guide.

 

Dashboard and front centre console:

1. Instruments:

The main Instrument panel included the following (from left to right):

  1. Fuel level;
  2. A multi-gauge incorporating temperature, oil consumption and oil pressure;
  3. 260km/hr or 160MPH speedometer (note, instruments on US and UK vehicles had both MPH and km/h incorporated) [Check what Canadian cars have].
  4. RPM gauge; and
  5. Analogue clock.

 

2. Climate Control:2

  • Climate control buttons on early cars (up to June 1995) were positioned in three square sections above the stereo.
  • Climate control systems on later cars (fitted from June 1995 in most markets) had a single unit similar to the stereo in size/shape, fitted in the same location. 

 

3. Parking sensor LEDs3

  • Pre-June 1996 cars (or Pre-December 1996 cars in the USA and Canada) did not have any parking sensor LED light bar/indicators integrated within the dashboard, nor did they have a rear overhead central lamp (which integrated the rear sensor LED light bars in later cars). Obviosuly, this is because those earlier cars did not have the parktronic bumper sensors.
  • From June 1996 (or January 1997 in teh USA) the C140 received integrated LED bars in the dash and reat overhead light. As a result of this new system, there were minor revisions to the dashboard design. The LED light bars were installed above the driver’s A/C vent, and between the A/C vents in the middle of the dash.  Rear sensor light bars were integrated into the rear centre interior overhead light. As noted above, the rear overhead centre light was introduced as a new feature on post-June 1996 cars.

 

4. Front Centre console4

  • Three different designs were applied to the centre console lid:
    1. Single large lid (observed across all model years);
    2. Split lid (observed across all year models). This lid was designed to house the optional Mercedes telephone, and cup-holders (X 2 on the right hand side). Some of these lids did not have the phone or the cup holders fitted, but instead had simply a separate storage compartment in the top part of the lid. On pre-facelift cars, the centre part of the lid was trimmed in perforated leather.
    3. Revised split lid (observed on very late models (1998/99 US models only from our observations). This lid has distinct side panels on the top part of the lid that lift open and have drink holders on the right side, and if optioned, a phone on the left side.
  • As a matter of observation, the vast majority of cars were fitted with the split lid console, type (b). The different designs have been labelled accordingly in the image gallery.

 

5. Dash buttons and options

  • A phone mounting with integrated speaker was available as an option, and fitted to the passenger side of the dash (partly in the passenger’s foot well). This option is shown in a 1997 German C140 brochure. We are unsure whether this was simply an alternative to the "in centre console" telephone options that were otherwise available. 
  • If the vehicle was optioned with a trip computer, the buttons to control it were placed next to the seatbelt extender buttons (behind the gear shifter).
  • If the vehicle was optioned with an electronic rear window sun visor / blind, the button was placed behind the gear shifter in a similar position to the trip computer buttons noted above.
  • The ESP/ASR on/off switch button is located on the right hand side of the ash tray
  • V12 cars had timber trim on the gear selector panel (the 500s and 420s received a standard grey-black plastic finish).5

Shifter knob differences between years:

  1. Early shifter knobs were either full leather or half leather with timber trim applied to the middle section of the handle (with a leather top). This knob had a circular leather seam at the top of the shifter, and did not contain any badge a the top.
  2. From around 1995, the knob design changed slightly, with a gloss rectangular Mercedes badge incorporated at the top of the knob. V12 cars had “V12” printed in white under the Mercedes badge. Note, there appears to be some cross-over as some 1995 models observed retained the earlier shifter design.

6. Rear centre console:

  • Based on observation only, it appears that most V12s have a separate lid/compartment built into the top of the rear arm rest that pulls down between the centre of the two rear seats. This feature was optional on the V8 cars, and rarely seen. However, it was certainly optional on V8 cars in some markets, and possibly part of the "leather exclusive" option (Code 515), which specifies the dash, door trims and consoles with leather trim and stitching (this option was commonly applied to V12 cars - see the trim section of this guide for more details). Most V8 vehicles have a simple large leather arm rest that deploys from between the rear seat backrests. 
  • A "Ski bag" hole between the back seats was optional in some markets - see the image attached of page 74 of the owners' manual. We are seeking an image of a car that has been fitted with this option, which must be one of the most rare options in the coupe form. We note that the fuel tank in cars optioned with this was reduced by 10l (to 90l) as a result of the area required for the rear trunk access.6
  • Although not sighted yet, supposedly the C140 could also be optioned with a rear central arm rest cooler (sized to store 4 aluminium cans or one bottle of champagne). This unit apparently required the "Ski bag" option to have been fitted to the car (as the unit poked through the rear seat bulkhead / fuel tank area).7
6. Radio/stereo units, CD stacker units and rear view mirrors

Stereos:

The C140 was originally available with a number of factory option units over the 6 year production run, including units with navigation functionality. The stereos were different “Becker” or Blaupunkt units (except in Japan where a Bosch nav unit was available). We have summarised each that we have observed on the cars below, including the approximate years they were available. Labeled images have also been included in the gallery:

Type 1: Becker 780//1430/1480/0830/BE1100 Mexico Diversity 830:

This model was named either the Becker Europa 2000 or Becker Mexico 2000. This was fitted to early vehicles, and we've only sighted these units on 1993-94 cars. This unit was carried over from the C126. Note, the “Becker Europa 2000”, was the "BE 1100", and has a label on it at the base that says “Becker Mexico Casette Code”. The label on the base of the BE1430 is “Becker Mexico 2000”.

Type 2: Becker BE1492 / 1692

These units were available from 1994 – 1999, and were the most commonly fitted stereo to the 140 series cars. The BE1492 has Mercedes part number 0038203686(07). The BE1692 has Mercedes part number 0038205986(09).

Type 3: Blaupunkt APS4 BP4902 Navigation radio

This unit was fitter to some later 140 coupes, and had a large central screen with navigation arrows on the left side, pre-sets 1 - 6 on the right had side and a "Nav" button at the top right. Mercedes-Benz was printed above the screen. Our understanding is that this was a European market only unit.

Type 4: Blaupunkt APS4 BP4902 Navigation radio (version 2)

This unit was very similar to the Type 3 system. It had navigation arrows (and what appear to be volume controls) on both the left and right side of the unit, similar to the navigation toggles on Type 3 on the LHS (but on both sides for this Type 4 unit). As with the type 3. this unit is believed to have only been available for the European market.

Type 5: Bosch Japanese exclusive navigation unit with integrated climate control

This unit is believed to be a japanese market only product, and contained a much larger navigation screen than the European market navigation systems (types 3 and 4 above). We have sighted this fitted to one coupe.

 

CD-Stacker systems:

On review of many cars, it has become difficult to state with certainty whether certain stacker units were factory fitted. We have signed examples from Kenwood, Pioneer, Blaupunkt etc in the trunk space of the C140. However, the factory correct units, so far as we can tell, should be within a Mercedes-Benz branded plastoc casing, witha  slide window. We have sighted two types applicable to the C140 - a 6-disc stacker and a 10 disc stacker. Images of both have been included for reference. The same 10 stacker system has been sighted in person on two Australian CL500s (1996 and 1997 models). Further research is needed on this item, and if anyone has further information that could assist, please get in touch.

Post-facelift models had small “Bose” badges fitted to the rear parcel shelf speakers identifying the vehicles fitted with the Bose sound system option. This comment is based only on a forum discussion so needs further research.

 

Rear view mirrors:

Several rear view mirror styles were applied to the C140. Supposedly, very early W140s in 1992 were fitted with a simple manual dimming mirror (with a small tab underneath which was flicked back or forward for the dimming function). We have not sighted this type of mirror on the C140, which presumably is explained by the C140 being introduced later than the W140, and by that time the earlier mirrors were phased out.

We have observed 4 types of rear view mirror on the C140, and included part numbers based on those observations (note, there is a part number shared between Type 1 and 2):

  • Type 1 (1993-1995) – Simple auto dimming mirror (power adjusted) (part number 1408102217 and 1408103717):

This mirror is the simplest in overall appearance, with no home link buttons or knobs on the casing itself. These power mirrors were electronically adjusted using a knob on the lower dash(the same knob that was used to adjust the side mirrors). There were three memory settings available, linked to the driver's seating memory positions. This power adjustable mirror was only available on the earlier cars (we believe up to June 1995).

  • Type 2 (1993 - 1999) - Auto dimming mirror (non-power adjusted) (part number 1408103717 and 1408110031):

This mirror is identical in appearance to the early power adjusted mirrors, with no home link buttons or knobs on the casing. However, it was manually adjustable. The mirror retained the auto dimming functionality (with the light sensor on the front side of the casing). We believe this mirror was available throughout the entire production period, but certainly on vehicles up to 1995.

  • Type 3 – Red / green light receiver with anti-dazzle manual dimming adjustor (Part number 1408105117):

This is perhaps the most rare of the rear view mirrors applied to the 140. At some point in 1994 or 1995, Mercedes introduced this mirror which had red and green lights in the base (a receiver for the central locking) and the circular knob linked to the vehicle’s security lock/alarm system. The mirror was not available with a power option (ie, it's position is manually adjusted), and it is similar (possibly the same) as the mirrors fitted to many R129 SLs. This style of mirror has been sighted on vehicles from as early as 1995 through to 1997.

  • Type 4 (1997-1999) – the “Homelink” autodimming mirror (Part number 1408106017):

This mirror is similar in appearance to the Type 1 mirror, but has three small buttons on the underside of the casing (left hand side) which are the “Homelink” buttons. This mirror was not available with a power option (ie, it’s position must be manually adjusted). The buttons could be programmed to control up to three rf-controlled items such as garage doors, gates etc. Forum discussions suggest that some of the early Homelink mirrors will not work with later garage door which use a rolling frequency.

Bose speakers attached to mirrors:

All mirror types were available with two types of Bose overhead speakers which were mounted forward of the mirror base. These speakers were installed on vehicles optioned with the Bose sound system. One type of speaker is a small rectangular design (part number 1408101211), the other is a small round design (part number 1408201202). Several examples have been included in the images.​ It ie not clear from our research so far whether the different speaker designs relate to different years.

 

7. Trim materials and designs

Seat trim:

  1. Leather seats were standard on the coupe, and Velour cloth was optional. Very few cars were fitted with the velour cloth option. Several examples are provided in the images.
  2. The choice of trim (leather or cloth) extended to the material on the door panel inserts as well as the centre console lid. If a vehicle was fitted with a single lid console design, cloth covered the whole lid. If you had the split lid design, it just covered the strip in the middle (the sides were still leather). See the console section of this guide below for clarity.
  3. Leather interiors on pre-facelift cars had perforated panels in the seat base and back squabs. The bolsters on these seats were non-perforated. This leather is known to be more hardy / durable than the later leather, but also lacks the softness of the later trims.
  4. The centre console lid on pre-facelift cars (if fitted with the split lid design) also had a perforated leather panel over the top, with non-perforated solid leather edges. If it was the large single lid design, it was non-perforated leather all over (see the console section of this guide below for further clarity on the lid designs).
  5. Leather interior on post-facelift cars was known as “Nappa” leather, and was a thinner, softer leather than the material fitted to pre-facelift vehicles. The Nappa leather trim did not contain any perforated panels.
  6. The “Designo” custom building scheme was introduced for the 140 series in 1996. This scheme allowed customers to order interior trim with non-standard colour schemes and materials. We have included some examples of the Designo trim applied to C140s. However, we are uncertain of their authenticity.
  7. For details on the trim colour options available on the C140, see the next section of this guide.

 

Seat adjustments and options:

  • All C140s benefited from fully electronic seat position adjustment, with memory for up to three user preferences.
  • All C140s were fitted with an air bladder in the seats as standard, which could be inflated by a small dial on the outer base of the seat. The bladder was linked to the PSE pump and allowed the user to adjust the seat support / firmness to their desired level.
  • The C140 was available with an option known as “multi contour seats”. These optional seats had four air bladders (versus the standard single bladder). Multicontour seats will have four buttons on the lumbar support adjustor switch on the side of the seat base. Again, the air bladders were operated by the PSE pump under the rear RHS seat.
  • Unfortunately, the bladders used for the seats commonly develop leaks. Seats with the multicontour option will have different controls to the standard seats (as shown in the images). The 140 bladders have been discontinued by Mercedes Benz, and forum discussion suggests it is necessary to use bladders from later models such as the W220 if you are making repairs.
  • Heated seats were always standard on V12 cars, and became standard equipment on the 500 from 1994. (from google play book). [Double check re V12 – I assume this would be correct]
  • The rear seats in the C140 were never available with a heated option, and were never adjustable like in the Sedan.
  • Front Seat occupancy sensors were introduced at the same time as side airbags in 1996 (post-facelift).
  • On pre-facelift cars, the button on the side of the front seat only flipped the upper half of the seat forward to allow entry for a rear passenger. However, on post-facelift cars, an additional function was added that made the seat base electronic motor drive the base forward to allow further room. (Benzworld link sent to self on 2 June).

 

Front door trims

  • Pre-facelift doors had an integrated storage compartment in the arm rest (the arm-rest forming a lid to the compartment), and these early doors were not fitted with airbags in the leather insert panel – instead having a flat leather insert. Pre-facelift doors also had a thinner leather interior armrest compared to the later cars, and an elastic leather storage compartment at the base of the door card. Two speakers were fitted at the front end of the doors only.
  • Post-facelift doors saw a substantial change to the armrest which no longer contained a storage compartment. Instead, the armrest and handle were much wider and formed one large piece. The leather insert on the door panel was thicker, and contains a side airbag. Large plastic “SRS” tags are applied to the middle of the leather inserts. The later cars lost the lower leather storage pouch, but gained a storage bin area integrated into the lower carpeted section of the door card. The revised door card also included a third speaker at the rear lower end of the door card.

 

Rear trim cards:

  • Like the front door cards, the rear cards on pre-facelift cars had a storage compartment underneath the armrest, and the handle is separate to the armrest.
  • Post-facelift cars changed to this design so it was more consistent with the front door card redesign. As a result, the door cards lost their storage bin, and instead a large armrest / handle was put in place. The whole panel was redesigned, and the way it connects to the car is completely different to the pre-facelift panels. Please refer to the youtube video below for instructions to remove the post-facelift rear card panel.

 

Rear headrests

  • Pre-facelift cars operated the rear headrests through the PSE pump [Not actually sure that is correct – may have always been electric on coupes?], whilst post-facelift cars had separate electronic motors on each head rest. [This needs to be clarified. A 1994 brochure suggested headrests were electric in the Coupe – specifically in the coupe.]

 

Leather exclusive option (Code 515)

  1. The C140 could be optioned with a leather dashboard, door cards / rear side panels and rear centre console from some point in 1995, (“leather trimmed panels”).  The option also consisted of a full suede roor lining. The leather trimming consisted of leather wrapped items and stitching seams which ran along edges of the dashboard, door cards, front and rear consoles, and even surrounding the rear air vents. The standard finish on the C140 dash was a flat vinyl finish, with no stitching. This was a finish available on both pre and post facelift interiors. This is known as the "Leather Exclusive" option, with option code 515.
  2. Some sources have suggested that leather trimmed panels were exclusive to the V12 models, and that all V12s received this option. While large number of V12s did receive the option, but certainly not all. The option has also been sighted on V8 vehicles. We note the following further comments:
    1. 1993 and 1994: No vehicles were observed with leather trimmed panels (including V12 cars).
    2. Leather trimmed panels were available from 1995 (precise date unconfirmed).
    3. Most V12 cars from 1995 onward received leather trimmed panels. However, this was not always the case and we have observed several V12 cars between 1995 and 1998 with standard trim panels fitted
8. Trim colour options

The trim colour was applied to the upper areas of the dashboard, door cards, rear side trims and the steering wheel. Different colours were available for these areas, but the vast majority of cars were fitted had a dark grey finish applied.

1. Single-tone trim colour options: 

Most early cars were fitted with single tone trim. However, two tone leather was available on 1995 and earlier cars and certainly so on V12 examples. From our research we note that colours such as Saffron Tan, Blue and Red were possibly only available on the earlier cars (1995 and earlier). Later cars retained the more corporate single tone colours (grey, black and creme), but also more often had two-tone trim applied. 

- Saffron beige: This is a beige trim, but noticibly darker / richer than the cream trim.

- Saffron Tan / Brazil: This is a brown beige trim, usually matched with mushroom trim, noticably darker than the Saffron;

- Blue: This is the blue that was very popular in earlier Benz models, but not so common in the C140 these days. It's usually matched with blue leather or cloth;

- Medium Red: This is a burgundy / maroon trim , and we've only ever sighted this with matching burgundy cloth trim. However, presumably it was also available with Medium Red leather);

- Cream Beige: This is the lightest of the colours available;

- Grey: This is a lighty grey material, sighted in both cloth and leather

- Black: 

2. Two tone materials: 

A substantial number of 1996 and later vehicles (both V8 and V12 cars) had two tone interiors. However, single tone interiors continued to be available in light grey, black and cream beige. Two tone interior options included:

- Saffron Beige over mushroom

- Black over light grey

- Dark grey over light grey

 

  • The centre console and lower sections of the door cards / rear trim cards were finished in a colour matching the seat trim. The only exception to this appears to be the cars optioned with velour cloth trim, where the entire dashboard was coloured the same as the trim (or, where the leather dashboard / door trim was optioned).
  • The “Designo” custom building scheme was introduced for the 140 series in 1996. This scheme allowed customers to order interior trim with non-standard colour schemes and materials. We have included some examples of the Designo trim, but note we are not able to confirm whether those are authentic.
  • Note that steering wheels always matched the trim colour applied to the dash.
  • Decipher from this link all of the trim codes available to the C140: https://mercedessource.com/problems/body-and-exterior-trim/finding-interior-color-codes
  • The majority of 1998 and later models had two tone interiors. 1997 models and earlier appear to mostly have single tone interior seat trim (with two-tone optional). It is suggested by brochure material that in some markets, such as the UK, two tone Nappa was only available on the 600, and never on the V8s. However, this has been proven wrong time and again by observation – it clearly was available on the 500s Just like in Australia.
  • Headlining, and lining of the front and rear pillars, generally matched the seat trim colour. The headlining was a soft thin cloth with suede like finish. Grey head linings were applied to most grey and black trimmed vehicles, and a light beige headlining was applied to beige / mushroom trim cars. Other rarer colours (such as blue and burgundy), were available with a matching head lining.
  • When / which models had the two tone leather interior? We know it was the 600 on later cars, but suspect it may also have applied to earlier cars? Maybe it was always optional, but standard on some models. Note that we have two late CL500s from Australia (a 1997 and a 1998) with two tone leather (light and dark Grey). We also have
    1. 1997: 2 X CL600 plus and 2 X CL500 (CL500s were Australian and UK cars).
    2. 1998: 2 X CL60 (USA and UK), one AMG 600, and 1 X CL500 (Australia)
    3. 1996: 2 X AMG CL600s, 1 X USA S600, 1 X UK CL500,
    4. 1995: 1 X Australian pre-facelift, 1 X Canadian S500, 2 X German S500, 1 X US S600, 1 X US S500, 1 X US S600. But note, there is a US 95 600 that doesn’t have two tone. We assume this was the changeover year.
    5. 1994: 1 X S600 Poland. Note, there is a UK 600 with cream leather without two tone. It seems that two tone was never used on crème. There is a 1994 flat Grey US 600 also which is not two tone.
    6. 1993: It seems that NO cars in 1993 were fitted with the two tone leather, not even the 600s. All single tone.

  1.  Timber trim options:

  2. The C140 coupes were available with three different woodgrain trim options, including:
    1. Burl Walnut: This was available on all models, and is the most common.
    2. Birdseye Maple – This was a darker timber finish.
    3. Chestnut – This is a lighter timber finish.

  3. We note that the base model timber finish available on the W140 sedan “Zebrano” was not available on the C140 coupe. We have not been able to confirm whether “Dark Ash” was available on the C140 (that being the trim applied to the Grand Edition” sedans in the US.

  4. All the above from - https://www.benzworld.org/threads/interior-wood.1612426/
  5.  
9. Mechanical specifications

Mechanical (all from W140.de):

  1. Note, on the engine specs on the early cars, despite having the same power, the compression ratio is 10:1, vs the later cars 11:1 (by later cars, I specifically mean the 1999 CL guide for USA and 1992 brochure USA)..
  2. Also, rear axle ratio in 1992 USA brochure car was 2.64:1. On later cars (1999 brochure), it’s 2.65:1.
  3. Note also, the 1992 early brochure here states a weight  for the 500 of 2,170KG. The later brochure 1999 states a weight of 2,130.
  4. Note the change on the M119 engine at the front of the heads – the earlier cars had a sort of plastic cover built in, where as mine is exposed., Also, a different type of Power Steering pump is fitted to [I presume] post-facelift cars. However, note that Anthony’s car is a late 1995 car, and has the later pump type. The earlier pump is a ZF pump, part number 1404600580 (this is the pump with the metal canister and small black lid). The later pump, is also a bosch/zf unit, with part number A1404666201. Note, there may be other part numbers applicable depending on whether the car comes with self-levelling suspension.
  5. W140.de: The 5-speed transmission was introduced on the V12 in May 1995, a completely newly developed 5-speed automatic transmission with slip-controlled converter lock-up clutch and electronic control was introduced, which thanks to its sophisticated electronic control made it possible to reduce fuel consumption. Successes have also been achieved in terms of weight and dimensions; the "new automatic transmission" is significantly lighter and more compact than comparable transmissions with five speed steps and can also be manufactured more economically since the number of individual parts has been reduced by almost 40%.
  6. Note, the google play book suggests this was introduced in June 1995. Play book also notes that this transmission brought 5-speed with an overdrive top, had an electronic control system , and fuel wastage was minimized by a slip control torque converter and a lock-up clutch. It was lighter and cheaper than the former gearbox and made up of 40% less parts, and was also compatible with ESP.
  7. The 5-speed was then introduced to the V8 coupes in September 1995, the electronically controlled automatic transmission has also been used in the eight-cylinder coupés; Since then, the ESP has been available for both models (v8 and 12) as an option. Again, w140.de. The September 1995 introduction is also backed up by the google play book,
  8. ESP was introduced at the same time as the 5-speed as standard on the V12 and has been part of the standard scope of delivery of the S 600 Coupé since then: the "Electronic Driving Stability Program ESP. W140.de
  9. Brake assistant BAS (introduced in December 1996), confirmed by both google Play book and w140.de.
  10. Xenon headlights with dynamic headlight range control was introduced from 1996, as standard on coupe
  11. Complete elimination of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the A/C system
  12. Petrol engines with SOHC four-valve technology and adjustable intake camshafts
  13. First Mercedes-Benz production car with a twelve-cylinder engine, the most powerful car engine of the brand up to that point
  14. Parameter steering with speed-dependent steering torque
  15. Double insulating glass on the side windows for maximum noise comfort.
  16. Automatic climate control with activated carbon filter and CO / NOX-sensitive sensors
  17. Electrically folding exterior mirrors
  18. Servo lock for doors and trunk lid
  19. Headlights with free-form reflectors (from 1994)
  20. Electronics networking via CAN bus
  21. Belt system with automatic height adjustment
  22. The engine wiring harness problem was fixed worldwide at production in late 1995. Some early 1996 US models might have the problematic setup. After that, you are safe. – from https://www.benzworld.org/threads/w140-buyers-guide.1484464/
  23. Wiring harnesses on facelift cars fixed the problem of biodegrading, but at the same time, the overall design of the harness was revised, with costs reduced. This was achieved by deleting the neat plastic casing that ran along the rop rear of the fire wall on pre-facelift cars (accessed with a hex key) was deleted, and replaced by simply having the wiring loom encased in a mesh webbing, and zip-tying the webbing to the relevant location. Note, the early and late C140s in V12 form both retained the casing for the wire harnessing. The casing was only removed / changed on the 420/500 cars.
  24. At facelift time (1994/1995 models) M.B. did over 1,700 changes to the S-class, MOST of them had the original purpose of cheapen the manufacture process (hence: quality!) and to simplify many over complex engineering systems which tended to be unreliable
  25. Suspension is double wishbone with gas charged shocks, coil springs and stabliiser bar used in the front suspension.
  26. The rear suspension is a 5 arm multilink system incorporatating anti lift, anti squat and alignment control. Coil springs, stabliiser bar and self levelling shocks are fitted. (above two are confirmed by the motorbooks reference buyers guide printed in China).
  27. 1995-19999 coupe height:  56.7 inches. https://www.benzworld.org/threads/w140-introduction-for-newbies-read-this-before-posting.1412506/
10. Option codes and data plate / tag

Coming soon

11. VIN & engine numbers

VIN number identification:

The following prefixes were applied to each C140 series:

Model Vin Prefix
420 140.063
500 140.070
600 140.076

 

Engine number:

The M119 V8 engine has an engine number commencing with prefix "119"

The M120 V12 engine has an engine n umber commencing with prefix "120"

12. Safety features

The W140 series was the first Mercedes model to incorporate every single Mercedes safety innovation in a single vehicle (Reference the Caribbean Bruno Sacco video where they state this). AT the time of launch, it was the safest mass production car in the world. On reflection, the W140 series was at points over 20 years ahead of its time in terms of features and performance of the vehicle to safety standards, which Mercedes had been working on since the introduction of the passenger safety cell concept since the 1950s.

We have not been able to obtain crash test results from Government assessment agencies for the W140, as the vehicle’s age pre-dates institutional testing such as that undertaken by the NIHS, EURONCAP, ANCAP and JNCAP. However, there is plenty of crash test information available for the cars, as Mercedes took it upon themselves to crash test the vehicles. Further, the age and now affordability of the W140s (particularly in sedan form), has meant that there are a number of videos out there actively demonstrating the vehicle’s safety in real world situations.

Some of the safety features incorporated into the C140 coupe include:

  • Safety cell (heavily reinforced roof pillars and sill panels to ensure minimal deformation of the vehicle’s passenger cell. The image attached is believed to be the effect of a 40% offset crash of the 2-tonne C140 against a non-deformable barrier at 64 km/hour (thereby forcing the full weight of the vehicle to be absorbed by the crumple zone). This test is a heavier test that is undertaken today, where deformable barriers absorb part of the force in slowing the vehicle.
  • Twin front airbags were standard on all models. Side airbags (thorax protection) were introduced in post-facelift models, with bags fitted to the door cards. No test results have been seen for the effectiveness / safety of the C140 in a side impact.
  • Seat occupancy sensors were introduced at the same time as side airbags in 1996 (post-facelift).
  • Electronic Stability Program was introduced on V12 models in 1995, and was optional on C140 vehicles from September 1995.
  • Rain sensing wipers from update in 1996 as standard (Post-facelift);
  • Auto dimming rear view and side mirrors + side mirrors heated for fog.
  • Fog lamps front and rear.
  • ABS brakes and EBD
  • Speed sensitive steering,
References

Introduction references

  1. Google play book - confimed the production period for the C140 (Para 1).
  2. Google Play book - confirming dates that each model was launcged at Detroit and Geneva
  3. C140 production numbers = Daimler website + wiki + benzworld
  4. C126 production numbers = Daimler website + wiki + benzworld
  5. C215 production numbers = Daimler website + wiki 
  6. Production period = Daimler AG website and Googel Play book
  7. Google play book - confirming t he 420 ceased production in August 1998.
  8. Benzworld.org confirmed a replacement was not there until the 2000 model year. https://www.benzworld.org/threads/w140-production-numbers-available.1445107/.
  9. Production numbers, came from: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/89165-how-many-c140s-were-manufactured.html

Section 1 Exterior:

  1. https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=hpMmBAAAQBAJ&hl=en&pg=GBS.PT19 - badges applied andthe years to which they did.
  2.  https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=hpMmBAAAQBAJ&hl=en&pg=GBS.PT19 and brochures in each year
  3. Daimler Website
  4. This is only an assumption. With cars that cost as much as the C140 new, we suspect that certain dealers were able to offer effectively whatever colour the customer wanted, for the right price.
  5. Google play book and based on our observation + consider other sources that have confirmed the timing for introduction of the in bumper sensors.
  6. The US / Canadian number plate lack of mounting base area on the front bumper is purely based on observation of a number of cars advertised for sale online over a 12-month period. Nor formal documemtation confirms this.

Section 2 Exterior:

  1. Chrome pop-out trunk handle intriduced in June 1995, from Benzworld.org
  2. Central locking system Infrared known as being unreliable from Benzworld.org discussion
  3. Sunroof as standard on coupe noted in Brochures; glass or steel top based on observation - mostly glass observed.
  4. Glass print / stickers based simply on observation of several vehicles.
  5. HID headlights fitted to the coupe and free form reflectors from 1994 - from Motorbooks Australia reference.
  6. The availability of a brake light - this is purely based on observation of hundreds of vehicles from different markets.

Section 3: Paint colours and codes:

  1. Mercedes Benz AG brochures from 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997 and 1999.
  2. Paintscratch.com - this website provided the numerous two tone combinations which were not shown in factory brochures.
  3. 1998 Mercedes CL Presentation Guide

Section 4: Wheel options:

  1. This is only based on observation of vehicles in Australia, and some vehicles seen advertised elswhere.
  2. These 15 slot wheels appear in the 1992 brochure, in some press images, and are confirmed by the Google Play book.
  3. See forum discussion at the following link regarding degrading clear coat on 140 series early wheels: 3 https://www.benzworld.org/threads/w140-buyers-guide.1484464/
  4. This is based on observation of many US and canadian cars - which did not appear to receive the Eltanin 18 inch wheels.
  5. Introduction of the Eltanin in 1994 is confirmed by the Google Play book
  6. Altanin wheels appear in brochures outside of the US market from 1994.See for example German and UK brochures for the 1994 year.
  7. The Gildun wheels being fitted to US cars is just an observation based on numerous vehicles sighted in the US markets.

Section 5: Steering wheels, dashboard and consoles:

  1. The 3 wheel styles available are based on our observation of cars over all years.
  2. Availability of the later style climate control system is based on observing numerous vehicles wherfe build dates are known, in different markets. This is an assumption, and the specific date of changeover is not certain.
  3. The US market, by observation only, seemed to receive the bumper sensors in 1997 cars onward only (later than other markets who had them from mid 1996 (possibly earlier). 
  4. All console lid design and availability determined by observing many cars for sale in different markets.
  5. This is consistent accross every V12 we have viewed. However, there may be exceptions.
  6. See page 74 of the Owners manual.
  7. See https://www.benzworld.org/threads/w140-coupe-champagne-cooler.1280780/

Other options

The other cooler was option No. 307, fitted to my S 500 L. This larger cooler is trunk mounted and has the capacity for four six-packs of alluminun cans or six bottles of champagne (see pic below). This cooler can be taken out of the trunk and used with 120/240V electricity with a provided converter. The converter is also capable of charging the car's battery directly through the fridge connection. Also, it does not need the "Sky Bag" option, leaving the gas tank untouched with its original capacity. One more advantage of the trunk mounted cooler is that it also could be used as a frozen box (for ice and such). The rear central armrest unit did not had the frozen capability.