The S-Class is Mercedes’ flagship model and has traditionally been the brand’s (some would even say the industry’s) most advanced model in terms of technology and comfort. Many technical innovations that are now taken for granted have been pioneered by the S-Class, including drivetrain technologies, interior features, and safety systems.
At this year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Mercedes-Benz assembled all S-Class generations and forerunners like the 1960 300d, nicknamed “the Adenauer” after the name of Germany’s first post-World War 2 chancellor, the 1964 220 SEb (also known as the Fintail), or the 300 SEL 6.3, which is the forerunner of AMG Mercedes models.
My personal favorite of the wonderful collection of cars Mercedes assembled in California has to be the 1972 600 S, one of the most iconic cars to ever sport the star badge. A successor for the Adenauer, it was the default car for state presidents (dictators particularly seemed to love it), CEOs and celebrities around the world.
There’s more of that in the official video below, so sit back and watch how the S-Class evolved into what Mercedes-Benz today describes as “the best car in the world.”
VIDEO