The Mercedes W140, which in the cult TV series “Brigada” became a symbol of Sasha Bely’s power, was in reality a modification of the S500 Long with an extended wheelbase and a 5.0-liter V8 engine. It was this black car with tinted windows and characteristic “eyes” of the headlights that captured the era of the 90s and early 2000s, setting the standards for understanding the status of crime bosses of that time. Unlike more affordable versions, this copy had a unique set of options, which at that time were considered the pinnacle of engineering in the German automobile industry.
The TV series "Brigade", released in 2002, instantly became a cultural phenomenon, and the images of the main characters and their attributes are still discussed by car enthusiasts. The central place in the visual series is occupied by Mercedes-Benz S500 in the back of a W140, driven by Alexander Bely. The choice of car for the film was not accidental: the filmmakers were looking for a car that would convey the absolute confidence, strength and limitless financial capabilities of the characters. Against the backdrop of broken roads and old Zhiguli cars, this limousine looked like a spaceship arriving from another world.
It is noteworthy that different cars were used in different scenes of the series, since the filming process required the presence of several identical cars for different stunts and angles. However, it is black that is considered canonical S500 Long, which stands out for its massiveness and strict body geometry. While regular versions of the S-class have already been seen in Moscow, the extended version with the index Long was a rarity and emphasized the elitism of the owner. The car became not just a vehicle, but a full-fledged character, complementing the charisma of Sergei Bezrukov.
Technical characteristics of the legendary W140
Under the hood of this car was a powerful power unit, which provided dynamics that did not correspond to the dimensions of the car. The M119 engine with a volume of 4973 cubic centimeters produced 320 horsepower, which allowed the heavy vehicle to accelerate to hundreds in less than 7 seconds. For the early 90s, when this model was created, such indicators were benchmarks and allowed you to feel confident in any traffic, be it a high-speed highway or city traffic jams.
The car's transmission is represented by a classic hydromechanical 4-speed gearbox, which later, in restyled versions, was replaced by a 5-speed one. However, in the context of the film and the period of the plot, we are talking about a reliable, although not the fastest in switching, classic. An important feature is the suspension system, which, in combination with a long wheelbase, provided that very “velvety” smooth ride for which Mercedes S-Class.
Safety in this car has also reached a new level thanks to the introduction of an electronic stabilization system and improved body geometry. The engineers paid special attention to sound insulation, using a double layer of glass, which made the cabin one of the quietest places in the world at that time. This created a feeling of isolation from the outside world, which fit perfectly into the lifestyle of the characters in the series, who conduct their affairs in complete confidentiality.
W140 Secret Options
Inside the cabin there were systems unique for its time: door closers that themselves tightened them to the end, electric curtains on the rear window, and even a separate battery for the comfort system so that music would play even when the ignition was turned off.
Features of appearance and tuning for filming
The visual appearance of the car in “Brigada” was carefully worked out by costume designers and set designers. The car had a deep black color, which in combination with chrome elements created a contrasting and memorable image. An important element was the original wheel design, often called “spade” or “ridge”, characteristic of the top AMG trim levels of that period.
Window tinting played a key role in creating an atmosphere of mystery. She hid the emotions of the characters and made the salon impenetrable to prying eyes, which symbolized the closeness of the White clan. In reality, the degree of tinting must comply with traffic regulations, but in film production deviations from the norms are allowed for the sake of artistic expression.
- 🚘 Drives: Large-diameter multi-spoke alloy wheels were used, visually increasing the scale of the car.
- 🌑 Glazing: Deep tinting all around, including the windshield (in some scenes), which created a “black box” effect.
- 💎 Chrome: Abundant use of chrome moldings along the body and on the bumpers emphasizes the luxury of the S500.
It is worth noting that the bumpers on the car in the series often looked more massive than the standard ones, which could be the result of the use of a body kit from the version AMG or individual modifications for the film crew. This added an even more aggressive and squat appearance to the car. The W140's body panels are renowned for their thickness and build quality, as evidenced by the famous "slam" of the doors, which sounded like a gunshot in the film, symbolizing finality.
Comparison with analogues of that time
To understand the unique position of the Mercedes W140 in the hierarchy of cars of the 90s, it is necessary to compare it with its competitors. At that time, the main competitor was considered the BMW 7 Series in the E38 body, which offered more sporty handling, but was inferior in comfort and status to the “boar,” as the 140 body was popularly called. The Lexus LS400 was just beginning to take over the market, offering reliability but lacking the history and prestige that the German brand had.
The table below shows a comparison of the key technical parameters of the Mercedes S500 (W140) and its main competitor, the BMW 750iL (E38), relevant for the period the series was released:
| Parameter | Mercedes-Benz S500 (W140) | BMW 750iL (E38) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 l (M119) | V12, 5.4 l (M73) | BMW is more powerful by 2 cylinders |
| Power | 320 hp | 326 hp | Almost equal |
| Drive | Rear | Rear | Equally |
| Feature | Double glazing | Active suspension | A different approach to comfort |
Despite being technically equal or even slightly superior to competitors in certain disciplines, Mercedes has managed to take the lead in being perceived as the "boss' car". This was due to a more conservative and monumental design, which was less influenced by fashion. While BMW strove for sportiness, Mercedes relied on rigidity and weight, which resonated perfectly with the mood of emerging Russian capitalism.
Operation problems and engine reliability
Owning a car at the level of the S500 in reality requires a serious approach to maintenance, which is often left behind the scenes of fiction. The M119 engine is considered one of the best engines in the history of Mercedes, with a huge resource, but it is not without weaknesses if used incorrectly. The main problem is the complexity and high cost of repairing attachments, as well as sensitivity to the quality of oil and fuel.
The electrics of the W140 are a separate topic for discussion. The abundance of electronic systems, which were introduced for the first time, often led to failures in the Russian winter and humidity. Control units, throttle position sensors and the ventilation system may require attention. However, with proper care, these machines can travel hundreds of thousands of kilometers without major intervention in the engine.
When purchasing a W140 today, first check the condition of the hydraulic lift system (if equipped) and the operation of the climate control, as restoring these components can cost half the price of the car.
Fuel consumption is another aspect that cannot be ignored. For a 5-liter V8 in the urban cycle, consumption of 20-25 liters of gasoline is the norm, not the exception. This makes operating such a car as daily transport uneconomical for most users, turning it into a weekend car or collector's item.
⚠️ Attention: Purchasing a Mercedes W140 older than 25 years requires a thorough check of the body for corrosion, especially the sills and arches, since repairing the original body geometry may not be possible without professional equipment.
Cultural influence and status in modern Russia
The release of the TV series “Brigade” secured the Mercedes W140’s status as a “boy’s Mercedes,” which paradoxically influenced its market value in the CIS. For a long time, these cars were valued lower than in Europe due to stereotypes associated with crime in the 90s. However, in recent years there has been a growing trend of interest in classic models, and the W140 is becoming an object of desire for collectors and connoisseurs of vintage cars.
Today, finding an original S500 in perfect condition is a rarity. Most of the examples were either broken, or subjected to poor-quality tuning, or simply fell into disrepair due to lack of maintenance. The car from the film became a symbol of a bygone era, when the rules of the game were just being written, and the appearance of the car spoke more about a person than his words.
- 📉 Price dynamics: In the 2000s you could buy one in excellent condition, but now prices for restored copies have increased significantly.
- 🎬 Film legacy: The film became the reason why even those who are not interested in cars know this model.
- 🛠️ Community: An active community of owners has formed around the model, preserving the history of the brand.
The “Brigade” phenomenon showed how a media product can forever link a car brand with a certain historical period. For many, the Mercedes W140 is not just a German sedan, it is a materialized dream of strength and justice, albeit in a criminal form. And even after two decades, this car continues to command respect on the roads, reminiscent of the times when “time was forward.”
☑️ What to check before buying W140
Where was it filmed and what happened to the cars after?
Filming of the series took place in Moscow and the Moscow region, and cars were provided by private collectors and rental companies. The fate of the specific specimens filmed in the film turned out differently. Some of them were sold to fans of the series, others returned to fleets for further rental, and some, alas, did not survive the intensive filming days and were disposed of or dismantled for parts.
One of the cars that took part in the filming was exhibited for a long time at exhibitions dedicated to the history of Russian cinema. For fans of the series, the search for exactly the car that was filmed in the frame with Bezrukov became a kind of quest. However, due to the fact that several identical cars were used for different takes and stunts, it is almost impossible to single out one “same” copy.
⚠️ Attention: There are often advertisements on the market for the sale of “that same car from the Brigade,” but in 99% of cases this is only a marketing ploy by sellers, since there is no publicly available documentary evidence that a specific VIN code belongs to the filming.
Interest in the car continues, and enthusiasts continue to restore the W140 to factory condition, trying to recreate that same image. Owners of such cars often share photos on forums, comparing their cars with scenes from their favorite TV series. This confirms that the car has become part of the cultural code, outliving its creator and becoming a legend.
The Mercedes W140 from the “Brigade” is not just a car, but a symbol of an era of change, where the technical excellence of German engineering met the wild Russian capitalism of the 90s.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What exact Mercedes model did Sasha Bely have?
The series used a Mercedes-Benz S500 Long in the back of a W140. This is an extended version with a 5.0 liter V8 engine. The black color and specific body kit made it recognizable.
How much did a Mercedes like this cost in the 90s?
In the early 90s, the price of a new Mercedes S500 in Germany was about 120-140 thousand marks. Taking into account customs duties and markups from resellers in Russia, its cost could reach 200-300 thousand US dollars, which was a colossal amount at that time.
Why is the W140 called the "boar"?
The car received the nickname “boar” or “barrel” for its massive dimensions, heavy and angular design, as well as for the characteristic sound of doors slamming and the operation of systems reminiscent of the growling or snorting of a large animal. This name stuck among the people and became a household name.
Is it realistic to buy such a car now?
Yes, you can still buy a Mercedes W140 on the secondary market. However, finding a live, not rotten example with the original engine and documents is becoming increasingly difficult. Prices for good specimens are constantly rising due to their collectible value.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mercedes S500 W140?
Real fuel consumption in the urban cycle ranges from 20 to 25 liters per 100 km. On the highway, with a quiet ride, you can keep within 12-14 liters, but the dynamics of acceleration directly affects the appetite of the engine.