Beginning with 1980 models, Mercedes offered a 4-wheel version of their hydropneumatic suspension on long-wheelbase V8-powered W126s sold in the European market.  With U.S. models, the hydraulic suspension was only fitted to the rear wheels – optional on top 380SEL and 500SEL models through 1985, and standard on all 560SELs. When system components fail, ride height drops to the ground.