2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

At a Glance

Pricing $64,900 - $169,000
Drive Types RWD, AWD
Engines 3.7l V6, 4.3l V8, 5.0l V8, 5.4l V8, 5.5l V12, 6.0l V12
Transmissions A5, A7
Fuel Economy 12-17 (city), 19-26 (highway)

The S-Class is the large flagship of the Mercedes line and a car that a lot of competitors benchmark. The S-Class range includes a short wheelbase S350, 3 V8 models and 2 V12 powered models ranging in price from the mid-60s to over $150,000. The ultimate S-Class is the new S65 AMG, which sports a twin-turbo V-12 and massive, tire-liquefying torque. Mercedes-Benz claims the S65 AMG is the fastest 4-door sedan available. In typical Mercedes manner, the S65 AMG barely hints at the awesome power under the hood. Only the truly discerning will be able to identify the S65 AMG badges on the trunklid. Even with its larger wheels, fat tires, and Brembo brakes, the S65 AMG is a truly an undercover executive sedan.

What Changed:

New entry-level, short-wheelbase S350 model added. New S65 AMG added as the top of the line S-Class.

Model/Trim/Package Engine Original MSRP
S350 3.7l V6 (241-bhp) A5 RWD $64,900
S430 4MATIC 4.3l V8 (275-bhp) A5 AWD $77,250
S500 5.0l V8 (302-bhp) A7 RWD $86,050
S500 4MATIC 5.0l V8 (302-bhp) A5 AWD $86,050
S55 AMG 5.4l V8 (493-bhp) A5 RWD $114,150
S600 5.5l V12 (493-bhp) A5 RWD $127,950
S430 4.3l V8 (275-bhp) A7 RWD $77,250
S65 AMG 6.0l V12 (604-bhp) A5 RWD $169,000