Special protection version of Mercedes long S-Class
Registered until 2022 to the Embassy of Oman
Equipped with almost every conceivable extra
Probably one of a kind in this colour
Only 44,000 kilometres on the clock

When Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new W140 S-Class in 1991, it set new standards in every respect. Larger, heavier and more technically sophisticated than any of its predecessors, it embodied the claim to be the best car in the world. In a time of political upheaval – from the end of the Cold War to new global uncertainties – there was also high demand for specially protected vehicles. This led to the development of the factory-armoured special protection variant based on the W140, known internally as the S 500 and S 600 Guard.

Unlike retrofitted vehicles, the W140 Guard was designed and manufactured at the Sindelfingen plant. Armoured steel, high-strength aramid fibres and multi-layer safety glass were integral parts of the body. The doors, roof and floor were reinforced, the tyres were fitted with run-flat inserts, and even the fuel tank system was given splinter protection. Depending on the model, the car achieved protection classes up to resistance level B6/B7 – sufficient to withstand even military attacks.

Under the bonnet were the powerful twelve-cylinder engines of the 600 SE and 600 SEL, whose 394 hp nevertheless accelerated the nearly four-tonne colossus to over 200 km/h. Despite the massive armour plating, comfort remained at the usual high S-Class level – with electric soft close, double-glazed windows and air conditioning that even functioned during explosion tests.

The armoured W140 was the preferred mode of transport for heads of state, diplomats and business elites worldwide – discreet, unshakeable and technically almost impenetrable. Today, it symbolises an era in which Mercedes cast safety, power and prestige in metal.

This twelve-cylinder long-wheelbase model from Mercedes' special protection programme was definitely not one thing: discreet. Painted in aquamarine blue metallic, it was clearly designed to attract attention. "It" in this specific case is the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Berlin. It is quite possible that this special protection S-Class in this colour is one of a kind. It is equipped with practically everything Mercedes had to offer in terms of luxury at the time. In 2022, it was released from diplomatic service and, with just 40,000 kilometres on the clock, is in excellent condition. Before us is a fascinating marvel of technology – an automotive historical document that is probably unique in this form.