Mercedes-Benz S-Class W116 Market Index1973-1980

About the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W116

The Mercedes-Benz W116 S-Class was introduced in 1973 and holds major historical significance as the first Mercedes-Benz officially branded as the S-Class, setting the template for flagship luxury sedans that followed. Offered in short- and long-wheelbase form, the W116 range featured inline-six and V8 engines, with variants including the 280S, 280SE, 280SEL, 300SD, 350SE, 450SE, and the legendary 450 SEL 6.9, which remains one of the most revered Mercedes sedans ever built thanks to its 6.9-litre V8 and advanced hydropneumatic suspension. Total production across all W116 variants reached approximately 473,000 units between 1973 and 1980, before being replaced by the W126. In the Australian market, the W116 is increasingly recognised as a true classic Mercedes, valued for its vault-like build quality, understated design, and the collectability of high-spec V8 and long-wheelbase models, particularly the 6.9.