Quick Facts
- Engine: 5.5L M275 V12 Biturbo
- Power: 510 hp / 380 kW
- Torque: 830 Nm / 612 ft-lb
- 0–60 mph: 4.3 sec
- Top speed: 155 mph (limited)
- Fuel economy (city): 10.8 mpg
- Production: 2005–2014
- Configuration: Long-wheelbase only
- Transmission: 5G-Tronic automatic
About the Mercedes W221 S600
The Mercedes-Benz W221 S600 was the flagship non-AMG model of the W221 S-Class lineup, produced from late 2005 through early 2014. Where the S500 offered a capable V8, the S600 stepped up to a twin-turbocharged V12 — a configuration reserved for only the most exclusive models in the Mercedes range. At launch, the S600 sat above every other W221 apart from the S63 and S65 AMG variants.
Mercedes produced three versions of the S600: the standard model, the S600 Guard, and the S600 Pullman Guard. The Guard is an armored variant, and the Pullman Guard is armored with a limousine body. Both Guard variants were built in very low numbers for government and security use — for most buyers, the standard S600 is the only realistic option, and the one this guide focuses on.
Unlike most W221 models which were sold in both standard-wheelbase (SWB) and long-wheelbase (LWB) configurations, the S600 was sold exclusively in LWB. The same is true of the S65 AMG — the most powerful models in the W221 range all came with the longer body as standard.
Pre-Facelift vs Post-Facelift S600
The W221 S600 spans two distinct production phases split by the 2009 facelift. Mechanically the cars are virtually identical — the V12 engine, transmission, and running gear carried over unchanged. The differences are primarily cosmetic and equipment-based.
| Pre-Facelift (2006–2009) | Post-Facelift (2009–2014) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production end | May 2009 | February 2014 |
| Headlights | Halogen / Xenon | LED daytime running lights added |
| Tail lights | Two body-color strips | Full red LED units |
| Front bumper | Standard | Lower front spoiler added |
| Rear bumper | External exhaust tips | Integrated exhaust tips |
| Dashboard | Original COMAND system | Updated COMAND + new trims |
| Front seats | Heated optional | Heated standard |
| Vehicle length | 5,206 mm / 205.0 in | 5,226 mm / 205.7 in (+20 mm) |
| Weight | 2,210 kg / 4,872 lb | 2,210 kg / 4,872 lb |
Basic Information
The S600 was given the chassis code of 221.176. Production for the pre-facelift model began in November 2005 and ended in May 2009. The post-facelift models began production in May 2009 and ended in February 2014. Mechanically, these cars were virtually identical. Most post-facelift differences involve cosmetics, electronics, and standardizing previously optional equipment.
| Production period | November 2005-February 2014 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Series | W221 S-Class |
| Model | S600 |
| Chassis code | 221.176 |
| Vehicle type | 4-Door Luxury Sedan |
The M275 V12 Biturbo Engine
The S600 is powered by the M275 — Mercedes’ 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V12. It is the same basic architecture as the engine in the S65 AMG, though in a lower state of tune. Where the S65 AMG produces 612 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque, the S600 delivers 510 hp and 830 Nm — figures that were still exceptional for a production sedan in 2006.
The V12 configuration produces a quality of power delivery that a V8 cannot replicate. Torque arrives at just 1,800 rpm and holds across a wide rev range, which means the car feels effortless at any speed. In practice the S600 is significantly more refined to drive than the S500, with less engine noise, smoother power delivery, and a character that better matches the car’s flagship status.
It is worth noting that while the S63 AMG also used a V8, the S600’s V12 actually made it feel more luxurious rather than sportier — a distinction worth understanding if you’re choosing between the two.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Designation / Type | M275 E55 / 275.953 |
| Configuration | V12, twin-turbocharged, four-stroke gasoline |
| Fuel System | Gasoline / Indirect Injection |
| Bore / Stroke | 82.0 mm / 87.0 mm |
| Displacement | 5513 cc |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
Engine Power & Performance
| Performance Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 380 kW / 510 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 830 Nm / 612 ft-lb @ 1,800 rpm |
| 0-60 mph | 4.3 seconds |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h / 155 mph (electronically limited) |
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is the most significant ownership consideration for the S600. The V12 biturbo is thirsty, particularly in city driving. The posted figures below are official European test cycle numbers — real-world consumption in city traffic will typically be worse.
| Fuel Data | Figure |
|---|---|
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L / 23.8 gal |
| Recommended Fuel | Premium Unleaded (91+ octane) |
| City Consumption | 21.7 L/100km / 10.8 mpg |
| Highway Consumption | 10.0 L/100km / 23.5 mpg |
Note
At highway figures, the 90L tank gives roughly 530 miles of range. In city use, that drops to around 250 miles.
Transmission
| Transmission Data | Figure |
|---|---|
| Type | Automatic |
| Gearbox Designation | Daimler-Benz 5G-Tronic |
| Gear Ratios | I: 3.60 II: 2.19 III: 1.41 IV: 1.00 V: 0.83 R: 3.17 |
Steering, Brakes & Tires
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Steering Type | Rack-and-Pinion |
| Front Brakes / Diameter | Ventilated Disc / 360 mm |
| Rear Brakes / Diameter | Ventilated Disc / 330 mm |
| Front Wheels | 8.5J × 18 |
| Rear Wheels | 9.5J × 18 |
| Front Tires | 255/45 R18 |
| Rear Tires | 275/45 R18 |
Measurements & Weight
The pre-facelift and post-facelift S600 are nearly identical in dimensions. The only change was a 20 mm increase in vehicle length on the post-facelift models — likely attributable to the revised front and rear bumper treatments introduced with the facelift.
| Measurement | Pre-Facelift | Post-Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 3,165 mm / 124.6 in | 3,165 mm / 124.6 in |
| Vehicle Length | 5,206 mm / 205.0 in | 5,226 mm / 205.7 in |
| Vehicle Width | 1,871 mm / 73.7 in | 1,871 mm / 73.7 in |
| Vehicle Height | 1,473 mm / 58.0 in | 1,473 mm / 58.0 in |
| Unladen Weight | 2,210 kg / 4,872 lb | 2,210 kg / 4,872 lb |
Is the W221 S600 Worth Buying?
The S600 is one of the most compelling used luxury cars available at its current price point — but it demands a specific kind of buyer. The combination of a V12 biturbo engine, air suspension, and a full suite of early-2000s Mercedes electronics means that maintenance costs are high, and cutting corners on servicing leads to expensive problems quickly.
That said, a well-maintained example with full service history from a Mercedes specialist is genuinely hard to fault as a used car. The V12 engine itself is known to be robust when properly looked after. The weak points are almost always peripheral — air suspension components, the ABC hydraulic suspension on some variants, and the COMAND infotainment system, which will feel dated but can be upgraded.
The sweet spot is a post-facelift example (2010–2013) with documented history from a specialist. Avoid cars with no service records, recent engine work with no explanation, or signs of deferred maintenance. The S600 rewards buyers who do their homework and penalizes those who don’t.
| Consideration | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Best years to buy | 2010–2013 post-facelift — updated equipment, same engine |
| Service history | Non-negotiable. Full records from a Mercedes specialist only |
| Air suspension | Check for leaks and uneven ride height — common on high-mileage cars |
| COMAND system | Will feel dated — aftermarket upgrades are available and widely fitted |
| V12 engine health | Listen for smooth idle, no smoke, no oil leaks at inspection |
| Guard models | Impractical for daily use — armour adds weight, parts are scarce |
| S600 vs S65 AMG | S600 is more refined; S65 AMG is faster but significantly more expensive to run |
⚠ Important
The S600 is not a good first W221. If you’re new to this generation, start with an S350 or S500, learn the platform, then move up. The V12 rewards owners who understand what they’re buying.
More About the Mercedes W221 S-Class
The S600 sits at the top of the W221 range outside the AMG models. To understand where it fits within the full lineup — including all diesel, petrol, and AMG variants, production figures, and MSRP data — read our complete W221 S-Class guide.
Do you or have you owned a Mercedes-Benz W221 S600? Let us know your thoughts about it in the comments below! We’d love to hear your experience with the car.