🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: S-Class Model Variant: S500 / S600 Chassis Code: W140 Model Year: 1996 Market: North America (implied by English language) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Represents the pinnacle of luxury and engineering from Mercedes-Benz in the mid-1990s, targeting discerning clientele seeking comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with other flagship luxury sedans such as the BMW 7 Series (E38), Lexus LS400, and Jaguar XJ. Key Features Vehicle Highlights: The W140 S-Class was renowned for its robust build quality, sophisticated engineering, advanced safety features for its time, and exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin. Manual Value Proposition: An indispensable resource for owners to understand and operate their complex W140 S-Class, ensuring proper care and maximizing the vehicle's longevity and functionality. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Systems Covered: Comprehensive coverage of all vehicle systems for the 1996 S500 and S600 models. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 300-500 pages (typical for this era and model complexity). Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Digital Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system. Drivetrain: Transmission operation (automatic), differential, drive shafts. Chassis And Suspension: Braking system (ABS), steering system, suspension components, wheels and tires. Electrical: Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, wiring harnesses, electronic control units (ECUs) basics. Comfort And Convenience: Climate control (automatic climate control), seats and adjustments, power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof, audio system, navigation (if equipped), phone system (if equipped), voice recognition. Safety Systems: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - airbags, seat belt operation and adjustments, child restraint systems. Procedures Included Operation And Controls: Detailed explanation of all dashboard instruments, controls, switches, and indicators. Pre Driving Checks: Fluid level checks, tire pressure checks, visual inspections, starting procedures. Driving Techniques: Guidance on optimal driving techniques for the S-Class, including braking and acceleration. Emergency Procedures: Instructions for handling emergencies such as breakdowns, flat tires, jump-starting, and accident response. Appearance And Care: Recommendations for vehicle cleaning, washing, waxing, interior care, and paint protection. Do It Yourself Maintenance: Basic maintenance tasks that an owner can perform, such as checking/replacing wiper blades, topping up fluids, tire pressure adjustments. Technical Depth Depth: Focuses on owner-level understanding, operation, and basic maintenance. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes found in a service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text content, assuming it's not a scanned image without OCR. Compatibility: Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac. Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader. Print Quality Quality: Digital download quality; printable to original manual standards. Binding Type Original Binding: Perfect bound (typical for factory owner's manuals). Paper Type Original Paper: High-quality glossy paper (typical for luxury vehicle manuals). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine S500 Engine Code: M119 Configuration: 4.966 cc (5.0 L) SOHC V8 Bore X Stroke: 96.5 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Horsepower: 315 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 347 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm Fuel System: Bosch Motronic M-L (Multi-Point Fuel Injection) Engine Management: Electronic Ignition and Fuel Injection Primary Engine S600 Engine Code: M120 Configuration: 5987 cc (6.0 L) DOHC V12 Bore X Stroke: 89.0 mm x 77.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Horsepower: 389 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 420 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm Fuel System: Bosch Motronic M-L (Multi-Point Fuel Injection) Engine Management: Electronic Ignition and Fuel Injection 🔧 Transmission Standard S500 Type: 4-speed Automatic (4G-TRONIC) Standard S600 Type: 4-speed Automatic (4G-TRONIC) Features Transmission Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes. Fluid Specifications Fluid Type: MB 236.2 or Dexron III (ATF). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 5163 mm (203.3 in) Width: 1886 mm (74.3 in) Height: 1474 mm (58.0 in) Wheelbase Wheelbase: 3139 mm (123.6 in) Weights Curb Weight S500: Approx. 1950 kg (4300 lbs) Curb Weight S600: Approx. 2090 kg (4600 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rating 1996: NHTSA data for this specific model and year may not be readily available in a standardized format comparable to modern ratings. However, Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety extensively. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Traction Control: Optional (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation on some models). Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System). Seat Belts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners. Door Impact Beams: Reinforced door structures. Headrests: Active head restraints (optional on some models). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory premium audio system, often with cassette and CD changer integration. Navigation: Optional factory navigation system (CNS - Command Navigation System) introduced in later W140 models, though base W140s may not have it. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Parking Sensors: Optional front and rear parking assist sensors (Parktronic). Connectivity Phone System: Optional integrated car phone system. Comfort Features Climate Control: Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature and air distribution settings....