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Free Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN Decoder

Decode your Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN number free for full specifications, engine, power, transmission and body, plus recalls and safety ratings. Covers 9 variants (1972–1980). No registration.

1972–1980 9 variants Sedan PetrolDiesel
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116)
Photo: Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) specs by variant

Engine, power, transmission and emissions for each S-Class (W116) variant in our database.

VariantYearsFuelEnginePowerGearboxDriveCO₂
450 SEL 6.9 1972–1980 Petrol 6.8 L 282 bhp AUTOMATIC RWD
450 SE 1972–1980 Petrol 4.5 L 217 bhp AUTOMATIC RWD
450 SEL 1972–1980 Petrol 4.5 L 217 bhp AUTOMATIC RWD
350 SE 1972–1980 Petrol 3.5 L 201 bhp AUTOMATIC RWD
350 SEL 1972–1980 Petrol 3.5 L 201 bhp AUTOMATIC RWD
280 SE 1972–1980 Petrol 2.7 L 182 bhp MANUAL RWD
280 SEL 1972–1980 Petrol 2.7 L 182 bhp MANUAL RWD
280 S 1972–1980 Petrol 2.7 L 156 bhp MANUAL RWD
300 SD 1972–1980 Diesel 3.0 L 115 bhp AUTOMATIC RWD

Specifications are indicative, from open data (cardata.wiki). Decode your VIN above to confirm the exact build.

Why decode a Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN?

The VIN confirms the exact engine, gearbox and trim, exposes outstanding recalls, and verifies the car matches its paperwork, so you can be sure a used S-Class (W116) is what the advert claims before you buy.

Other S-Class generations and versions

The same nameplate across body styles and chassis generations.

Other Mercedes-Benz models

Decode another Mercedes-Benz, or see all Mercedes-Benz models.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN FAQ

What does a Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN tell you?+
A Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN decodes to the exact variant, engine, transmission, body type, model year and factory options. Our free decoder also checks recalls and available safety ratings.
Where is the VIN on a Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116)?+
Look at the base of the windscreen on the driver's side, on the driver's door-jamb sticker, and on the vehicle registration document (V5C / title).
What years was the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) made?+
Our database covers the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) for model years 1972–1980, across 9 variants.
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN check free?+
Yes, decoding specifications, recalls and safety ratings is completely free and needs no registration. A paid full-history report (mileage, theft, accidents) is optional.

Decode your Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) VIN

Enter the 17-character VIN for instant specifications, recalls and safety data. Free, no registration.

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Full history

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A VIN check shows the official technical record. Real mileage, accidents, theft and ownership are not in open data, so a full carVertical report adds:

  • Real mileage / odometer verification
  • Accident & damage records
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  • Ownership & registration history
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