offered were Gleason Torsen differential in various ratios, manual transmission (extremely rare), and various TV/radio consoles. Trasco Bremen offered a stretch limousine version called the "1000 SEL". A variety of coachbuilders offered convertibles based on the SEC (coupé) model. Caruna of Switzerland also offered a full four-door convertible based on the SEL (but using the SE's shorter rear doors). One of these (a blue one) still belongs to Dutch Royal Family, who use it at their resort in Porto Ercole, Italy. A coachbuilder, Caro International, built an estate/station wagon version of W126 S-Class called 560 TEL. S-Guard, specially modified W126 S-Class models were produced for the transport of dignitaries and world leaders. Among the modifications made included a wheelbase stretch, bulletproof glass, and armored body panels. Racing Two AMG-modified 500 SEC cars raced at the 1989 24 Hours of Spa. Both cars failed to finish, with one suffering gearbox issues, while the other had issues with the rear axle. Awards The 300 SD received the 1981 Motor Trend Import Car of the Year. The 380 SE was the Wheels Magazine Car of the Year in 1981. The W126 was awarded the U.S. Highway Loss Data Institute "Safest Passenger Car of the Year" in 1988 and 1989. The W126 was the third-ranked luxury vehicle in J.D. Power's 1990 Initial Quality Survey (IQS). From 1987 to 1990, Mercedes received the highest customer ratings in the J.D. Power Sales Satisfaction Index. Legacy The W126 series was the highest volume S-Class on record in terms of production. Three armoured 560 SEL ordered by Saddam Hussein had a series of pipes shooting flames out of the sides. A limited number of W126 continued to be produced in South Africa until 1993(?), two years after the introduction of W140 S-Class. No figures were given for South African production. Nelson Mandela was given a commemorative model, a red 1990 500 SE. Technical data Dimensions and weight Timeline References Notes Bibliography General Workshop manuals External links The unofficial W126 page – history and details of the W126 Fuenfkommasechs.de – German website with vast information on development, model history, engines and innovations Production information, technical data, and media of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Digital Archive W126 Cars introduced in 1979 1980s cars 1990s cars Full-size vehicles Grand tourers Rear-wheel-drive vehicles Sedans Limousines W126 Cars discontinued in 1991