S 600 difference 600 SEL ?
 

Hello,
Can anyone advise if there is a technical difference between a s600 and 600 SEL, 1991 model? or was the SEL made only in 1991?
any input would be appreciated.
Michael

The 600 SEL was built during the 1992-1993 model years. The S600 was 1994 and subsequent years.

Reply
 

Can you verify this data with two sources?
I have a friend who has a 1991 600 SEL model
I was told at the local dealership that 600 SEL was
made between 1991 and 1994.

The W140 series S-class was manufactured from late 1990 to late 1998 for Germany and the rest of the world, except the U.S.

In the U.S., the W140 was offered for production years 1991 through 1999.

Basically, the cars are very similar having all the same body.

In the middle of 1993 (1994 production year for the U.S.) the line had a major facelift (mostly cosmetic changes to make the car look less bulkier).

Badge designations for early production cars (1991-1993) were as follows:

300 SE/SEL
420 SE/SEL
500 SE/SEL
600 SE/SEL

Then, from 1994 on, the badges were simplified as:

S 320
S 420
S 500
S 600

(You had to look at VIN number or the car itself to see if it was a short (previously SE) or long (SEL) wheelbase model).

From 1991-1993 the 300 SE/SEL were really all fitted with a 3.2 liter engine, hence it should really have been badged 320 SE/SEL, but it wasn't.

Hence, a 1991 600 SEL should be almost identical to a 1994 S600. The 1994 S 600 would have the facelift and minor mechanical updates.

Hope all of these can help you to clarify the matter.

reply
 

I appreciate the info, do these cars have a
badge on the passenger side compartment saying
600SEL as well?

Not 600SEL but V-12.

The V12 emblem on a 1993 600 SEL is located on both C Pillars.

European and worldwide versions (maybe except U.S. versions) of the 1991-1993 600 SELs HAD a "600 SEL" chromed emblem (or badge) installed over the wood detailing on the passenger side of the dash (just under passenger airbag -if so equipped-) or just above the glove box compartment door.

This badge was very similar to the one installed on the trunk, and to my personal opinion it looked very tacky.

It seems many people also agreed with me, as Mecedes-Benz offered a "FACTORY DELETE" option for this interior 600 SEL badge without extra charge.

I guess some owners who forked the money for a 600 wanted to be sure to constantly remaind its passengers of what car were they riding in.