The W140 Mercedes S-Class. It was always available with plenty of grunt, but tuner AMG Renntech saw fit to give the mighty luxobarge a 615-hp V12 engine upgrade. The resulting beast is known as the 2022 Renntech S76R, which is based on the 1992600 SEL.
It was the 1990s when Mercedes really started increasing the power output of its best-in-class luxury sedan. Even the six-cylinder models outdone the V8s from the outgoing W126, and the latest 6.0-liter V12 with 402 horsepower. Back in the day, Renntech would bump up those engines to 7.4 liters, tuning them up to 585 horsepower.
However, technology has evolved, and now, 30 years later, Renntech is able to do a lot more. Boredom increased the tuning house and pushed the engine to 7.6 liters, making it the largest displacement M120 V12 Ever. Thus, the engine was rebuilt with lightweight pistons and titanium connecting rods, along with tapered heads, high-performance camshafts and other supporting modifications.
The result is 605 horsepower and 715 pound-feet of torque, impressive numbers for a new car built today. Surprisingly, it’s all driven by the old 1996 Bosch ME-1 engine control unit that tunes the custom Renntech performance. The engine is mated to an upgraded 722.6 five-speed automatic transmission to handle the added power, with an OS Giken rear limited-slip differential that helps cut power.
Fortunately, the large carbon-ceramic brakes provide plenty of stopping power to keep engine performance in check. The car also gets 19-inch wide wheels wrapped in viscous modern rubber for added stability, along with lowered springs for a more sporty attitude.
Aesthetically, the car got the full AMG treatment, with floor effects throughout and a Renntech spoiler on the trunk. Inside, the interior has bold black and red upholstery with diamond stitching, with Renntech logos on the headrests to remind everyone of what you’re driving. The three-seater rear seat has been swapped out for the more comfortable two-seater option, giving the car four seats in total.
The S76R will deliver 0-60 mph in the low five-second range while retaining the vault-like feel of being in the W140 S-class. For those who want a classic luxury car without all the annoying modern bells and whistles, it’s hard to imagine something better. Twelve cylinders, plenty of power, and a car with buttons instead of screens. Who can ask for more?
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