Mercedes-Benz CL I (C140) gallery (1992–1999)
The first-generation flagship coupe based on the W140 S-Class platform, officially designated as the CL-Class in 1996.
The full-size flagship coupe based on the W140 S-Class platform premiered at the Detroit Auto Show in January 1992. Initially sold as the 500 SEC and 600 SEC, it was renamed S-Class Coupe in 1993 and officially rebranded as the CL-Class (C140) in 1996. The heavy hardtop body featured double-glazed side windows for noise isolation and an automatic seatbelt feeder mechanism. The opulent cabin accommodated four adults in exceptional comfort.
Engine choices comprised naturally aspirated gasoline units: a 4.2-liter V8 (CL 420), a 5.0-liter V8 (CL 500), and a flagship 6.0-liter V12 (CL 600) generating 394 hp. The C140 was historically significant for introducing Bosch Electronic Stability Program (ESP) technology to the automotive industry in 1995. Transmissions included 4-speed and 5-speed automatic gearboxes. AMG also produced rare low-volume specials such as the CL 60 AMG, CL 70 AMG, and the 7.3-liter V12 CL 73 AMG.
