The Mercedes 126 S-Class of 1979-1991 remains the most successful premium saloon in the company's history and is considered by many to be one of the best cars in the world. "You don't simply decide to buy an S-Class: it comes to you when fate has ordained that your life should take that course. The door closes with a reassuring clunk - and you have arrived," said the sales brochure of the first real Sonderklasse, the W116. With over 300 colour photos and production histories and specifications for both Generation One and Two models, this is an essential resource for anyone with an interest in this timeless car. The book covers an overview of the key personalities who drove the development of this model; the initial 116 Sonderklasse and its subsequent evolution; the history and personality of each model and finally detailed analysis of the different engines - both petrol and diesel. This essential resource explores both the technical and social sides of how this legend was born and is superbly illustrated with 314 colour photographs.



Dr Nik Greene has written many feature articles and regular copy for classic car and club magazines in the UK and France, as well as Buying and Maintaining a 126 S-Class Mercedes. When not working as a criminologist he prefers to spend his time in the Limousin area of France where he has a property with ample barn and workshop space for his cars. Apart from a rare Mercedes 560SE and the Mercedes G-Wagen, his stable also includes several classic Citroens and Renaults.