Mercedes-Benz: Philosophy
The effortless power from the eight cylinder engine gives greater safety and a very comfortable ride
The S-class is right at the top of the thirty-eight model Mercedes-Benz range. And the eight cylinder cars are at the top of the S=class.
Components produced to a very high standard of engineering - extremely efficient and reliable, totally integrated into the overall concept.
engine and suspension, engine and brakes, engine and overall size and weight. A total entity. A perfect combination of perfected features. The eight-cylinder engines are a very important part of this motoring concept, which is designed to overcome problems of traffic and environment and to keep the driver relaxed.
The way these engines deliver their power, smoothly and as quick as lightning, is truly remarkable. You only see the gradients on the motorway - you don't feel them.
You can ease into a stream of traffic with a great surge of power that quickly gets you out of danger. It takes less time to overtake, and you get away without endangering others.
The combination of V8 engine and suspension is ideal for good behaviour in traffic. It makes for greater safety. There is no challenge from overemphasis of engine power.
Naturally, it is undeniable that this kind of refined power enhances the pleasure one gets from driving but this pleasure is not achieved at the expense of others nor is it uneconomical.
Because, with a powerful eight cylinder engine only a fraction of the power potential is needed to maintain normal cruising speeds. At customary motorway speeds fuel consumption is not much more that of a medium sized car that has to be pushed to its limits to achieve the same performance.
The Mercedes-Benz V8 engines are exemplary for their smooth running, durability and advanced technology. There is a governor to prevent the engine from over-revving; valves that turn fractionally at every stroke, to prevent them burning out ; heat-resistant sodium-filled exhaust valves and contactless transistorised ignition. These are some facets of the highly developed technology.