autoevolution
 

MERCEDES BENZ S-Class Cabriolet Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 3
First production year: 1952
Engines: Gasoline
Body style: Convertible (spider/spyder, cabrio/cabriolet, drop/open/soft top)
MERCEDES BENZ S-Class Cabriolet (A217) photo gallery

Even though the German automaker introduced the open-top version of the S-Class, the A217, on the market in late 2015, in 2017, it already brought the facelifted version for it.

That happened because the rest of the S-Class range, including the coupe, went through an upgrade, and the convertible couldn't be left aside. So, even if the car didn't look outdated at all, its modifications made the customers happier.

On the outside, the 2017 model-year received a new, floating grille that gave the impression of a stellar race. Something like a warp-speed emphasized by the 3D dotted pattern that stood behind the three-pointed star badge and its wings. In addition, the bumper received an A-shaped lower grille, similar to those usually offered on AMG models. Moreover, the headlights were also improved and sported crystals inside that offered a more luxurious flair to this land yacht. At the back, the taillights featured standard OLED lighting.

The interior featured a slightly different dashboard design, with the upper side sloped instead of abruptly dropped after the center display, which was installed above the center stack. The infotainment and instrument panel screens were 12.3" in size and protected by the same piece of glass. In addition, the steering wheel was new and featured a wider gap inside the lower spoke than on the 2016 model-year vehicle. Like its predecessor, the 2017 model-year offered the possibility to open or cover the cabin at speeds of up to 60 kph (37 mph), and the entire process took just 20 seconds.

Under the hood, the automaker installed a 4.0-liter V8 mill that replaced the older 4.7-liter unit. Yet, it provided more power than its predecessor.

full description and technical specifications
MERCEDES BENZ S-Class Cabriolet (A217) photo gallery

After almost half a century, Mercedes-Benz launched a new four-seater convertible on the market, in the form of the luxurious and elegant S-Class Convertible.

It was the last member of the S-Class family, after the sedan and the coupe. It was meant to fight on the same market with the Bentley Continental GTC and, for that, it was equipped with all the features that the Mercedes-Benz engineers were able to give.

From the front, the big S-Class convertible featured a black diamond radiator grille with the three-pointed star and a single louver in silver with chrome inserts. The hood added dynamic touches with two domes, reflecting the "V" engine. The chrome trim added a sporty finishing touch. As an option, an intelligent LED headlight system showcased the car's elegance in glittering style with Swarovski crystals for the turn-signal and DRL.

The 2016 S-Class convertible featured an enhanced automatic wind protection system AIRCAP and the AIRSCARF neck-heating system. It also had four-heated seats and an intelligent climate control system that "knew" when it was needed to heat or not the cabin. The system also received the information if the vehicle was open or closed and adjusted accordingly.

For the powertrain, the S-Class convertible has received a 585hp 5.5-liter biturbo engine from the AMG and a standard AMG 4Matic all-wheel-drive system with rear-biased torque split.

full description and technical specifications
MERCEDES BENZ Typ 300 Roadster (W188) photo gallery

It was the most expensive car in the world when it was launched and it became very desirable due to its road qualities, the stance, and the luxurious interior.

Some of the most known people in the world bought a 300 Roadster. People such as Shah of Iran, King Gustav of Sweden, Gary Cooper, Yul Brenner, or Maria Callas were among the customers of the 300. The car was based on the already sumptuous top-range 300 series chassis. It was named: “Car of the world elite”.

The big, curved, front fenders incorporated the rounded headlights. The tall, silver, grille stood behind the chromed front bumper. There were two open-top versions for the 300: the Cabriolet and the Roadster. The difference was that the former featured four seats and the latter featured a fully retractable soft top, behind the two seats in the front.

The leather upholstery was fitted as standard, but the stitchings and the options list was long. Its interior was designed depending on the order. In 1955, a swivel window was introduced on the 300 Sc version.

The engine was a 3.0-liter inline-six fed by three downdraught Solex carburetors and the power output was 150 hp. It was mated to a four-speed manual, with the shifter on the steering column. In 1955, the 300 Sc was improved and a direct injection unit was installed and its power grew to 175 hp. The front double-wishbone suspension and the rear swing axle ensured a comfortable ride.

full description and technical specifications