2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 5.5L V8 AWD Automatic

Model Highlights

The S-Class comes in two primary trims, the V-8-powered S550 and the V-12-powered S600. The S550 produces a 382-horsepower via a 5.5L V8, while the S600 features a 510-horsepower 5.5L V-12. There are also two high-performance AMG versions, the S63 and S65, which are also powered by 518-horsepower, 6.3L V8 and 604-horsepower, 6.0L V12 engines, respectively. The AMG S65's V12 has twin turbos and makes an astonishing 738 pound-feet of torque. All S-Class models have more than enough power for nearly all types of driving, but the personality of the V8 models is quite different than that of the V12 models. V8 models come with a seven-speed automatic, while V-12 models get a five-speed. Overall, the lighter weight of the V8 models and two extra gears makes them feel friskier on a curvy road, while the S600 and S65 have so much torque that they seem to effortlessly glide up to speed. The two high-performance versions of the S-Class, the S63 and S65, come with a host of improvements for those who like to drive enthusiastically--or at least look the part. In both cases, suspensions are retuned to be a bit stiffer, and brakes are upgraded both in size and with composite brake discs. Both cars have appearance cues as well; the S63, for instance, includes flashy 20-inch alloy wheels exclusive to AMG, contoured side skirts and a more aggressive treatment at the back. All four S-Class models offer good handling while maintaining a smooth ride. That's thanks to the standard Airmatic suspension on S550 models, and to the Active Body Control that comes with the S600 and both of the AMG cars. ABC adjusts the suspension at each corner to keep the body flat during tight corners and lowers the car at higher speeds. Inside, passengers are kept comfortable, with seats that boast better adjustability than those in most vehicles, vast amounts of rear legroom and supple leather and wood trims. The S-Class is not only the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz line but one of the best-equipped of any vehicle in terms of luxury and technology features. The standard features list includes heated headlamp and windshield washers, a SmartKey system, a power trunk closer and fiber-optic ambient lighting. The S600 adds items such as Dynamic Multicontour seats with massage, heated/ventilated back seats, a night vision system, Distronic adaptive cruise control, four-zone climate control and sunshades. Now packaged with the Distronic Plus cruise control are a Parking Guidance feature and Blind Spot Assistant. Both features work together to warn the driver of a vehicle in the blind spot area alongside the vehicle.