Mercedes-Benz S-Class VIII (W220) gallery (1998–2005)
Eighth generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220), produced from 1998 to 2005 featuring standard Airmatic suspension and sleeker proportions.
The eighth-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) launched at the Paris Motor Show in autumn 1998. Designed to present a leaner and more futuristic silhouette than the W140, the W220 shed over 300 kilograms while reducing aerodynamic drag to Cx = 0.27. Offered in standard (W220) and long-wheelbase (V220) sedan bodies, the model brought standard AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and debuted Mercedes' PRE-SAFE predictive occupant protection in 2002.
Engine options included M112 V6 and M113 V8 gasoline units, a 500 hp 5.5-liter twin-turbo V12 (M275) in the S 600, and torque-rich CDI turbodiesels (S 320 CDI, S 400 CDI V8). The W220 was the first S-Class to offer optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive and Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension. AMG models peaked with the supercharged S 55 AMG (500 hp) and the twin-turbo V12 S 65 AMG producing 612 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. A 2002 facelift updated clear-glass headlamps, front apron styling, and COMAND navigation screens.