Mercedes-Benz In Production the Longest
When considering automotive history, few vehicles possess a lineage as consistently innovative and enduring as the undisputed flagship of the three-pointed star. Thus, we are proud to discuss the magnificent heritage car with the distinction of being the Mercedes-Benz in production for the longest. We at Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale, your premier automotive dealership in Scottsdale, AZ, know that discerning drivers appreciate not only the present luxury but also the depth of engineering tradition. Consequently, the answer to what is the oldest class of Mercedes that is still being built today is the legendary S-Class, whose ancestral line traces back to 1951.
From Special Sedan to Global Benchmark
The “S” in S-Class officially stands for “Sonderklasse,” which means “Special Class,” and it perfectly encapsulates this model’s revolutionary role. Historically, Mercedes-Benz had always offered luxury vehicles, but the continuous, post-war line of luxury saloons began in 1951 with the Model 220. Furthermore, by 1972, with the introduction of the W116 model, the official S-Class designation debuted. This sedan immediately established itself as a technological pioneer, and ever since, it has been a rolling laboratory for the entire automotive industry, setting the benchmark for performance, comfort, and safety. Therefore, the long-standing continuous production is a testament to its consistent excellence.

The S-Class: A History of Innovation
Over the decades, the S-Class has continually redefined what is possible in a modern automobile. In fact, many features we take for granted today debuted on this magnificent vehicle. For instance, the S-Class was one of the first production cars to feature an anti-lock braking system (ABS) in the late 1970s. Moreover, in the 1980s, it introduced the driver’s-side airbag and, later, the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for superior handling control. Unquestionably, this model is a consistent innovator.
The technological progression of the Mercedes-Benz in production the longest is astonishing:
- Safety Cell Body: Introduced on S-Class predecessors, this patented design was fundamental for occupant safety.
- Active Suspension: Features like MAGIC BODY CONTROL, which scans the road ahead and adjusts the suspension, have continuously refined the vehicle’s unparalleled ride quality.
- Cutting-Edge Infotainment: The new generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) features up to five high-resolution screens and advanced voice control, creating an intuitive sanctuary for its occupants.
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Experience the Reigning Luxury Flagship
Today, the S-Class is a global icon and the best-selling Mercedes-Benz luxury sedan. It is a harmonious combination of classic elegance and futuristic technology. Consequently, a new S-Class remains the ultimate expression of automotive luxury and a clear indicator of the direction the rest of the industry will follow. We are delighted to inform you that we have the newest models in stock, ready for you to experience this extraordinary lineage firsthand. Therefore, we invite you to visit our state-of-the-art facility—the leading Mercedes-Benz dealership near Scottsdale—to appreciate this unparalleled vehicle.
A Tradition of Excellence Continues at Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale
The S-Class is more than just a car; it is a tradition of engineering excellence. Thus, the longest continuously produced model line from Mercedes-Benz stands as a monument to relentless improvement and enduring prestige. Take part in automotive history by taking ownership of a timeless luxury automobile from Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale – the S-Class.

