Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz 420

Mercedes-Benz 420
Photo: nakhon100 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

The official data lists 3 versions of the Mercedes-Benz 420 (1986–1991), in the United States. Each market publishes its own figures, measured on its own test procedure.

At a glance

Years in the data
1986–1991
Markets
United States
Engines
4.2 L
Fuels
Petrol
Lowest consumption (United States)
15.7 L/100 km (EPA)

What is the Mercedes-Benz 420?

The Mercedes-Benz 420 was a V8 version of the W126 S-Class, the brand’s flagship saloon range. It brought a 4.2-litre petrol engine to a car known for its restrained design and focus on comfort.

Generation and engine

The W126 420 was listed in the United States from 1986 to 1991. US versions included the 420 SE and 420 SEL, with the SEL offering a longer-wheelbase body. The W126’s successor in the S-Class range was the W140.

How economical is the Mercedes-Benz 420?

The best combined EPA rating for the US-market 420 was 15 MPG, equivalent to 15.7 L/100 km. Test procedures differ between markets: Europe uses WLTP or, on older figures, NEDC; the United States uses the EPA test, and Canada uses a five-cycle test.

Where was it sold?

The US-market 420 was listed from 1986 to 1991, with three petrol versions and a 4.2-litre engine.

Questions and answers

Which generation was the Mercedes-Benz 420?

It was part of the W126 S-Class generation, listed in the US from 1986 to 1991.

What engine did the 420 use?

US-market versions used a 4.2-litre petrol engine.

What was its combined EPA rating?

The best combined rating was 15 MPG, equivalent to 15.7 L/100 km.

420 W126 (1986–1991)

Mercedes-Benz 420 W126
Photo: nakhon100 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

Model codes: W126, V126 · Sold in: United States · References: mbca.org, en.wikipedia.org

United States 3 versions

Model years sold in the USA, from the EPA and the Department of Energy (fueleconomy.gov). MPG on the EPA test; litres per 100 km = 235.215 ÷ MPG.

Years and versionEngineFuelGearboxDriveConsumption (combined)CO₂
1986–1991(GUZZLER) (FFS) (MPFI) · (GUZZLER) (FFS)4.2 LPetrol4-speed automaticRear-wheel drive15 MPG (15.7 L/100 km) EPA368 g/km
1991(GUZZLER) FFS MPFI (FFS), EMS 2MODE CLKU4.2 LPetrol4-speed automaticRear-wheel drive13 MPG (18.1 L/100 km) EPA425 g/km
1990(GUZZLER) FFS MPFI (FFS), EMS 2MODE CLKUP4.2 LPetrol4-speed automaticRear-wheel drive13 MPG (18.1 L/100 km) EPA425 g/km

Official figures are measured on standard test procedures and differ between markets. Your consumption depends on how, where and in what conditions you drive.