But that wasn’t the only innovation that gave Setra an edge at the time. The line coach which was presented at the IAA in 1963 was derived from a new modular system, which for the very first time allowed for different lengths with substantially identical assemblies. Although the model designation may have suggested it, the S 125 was not a vehicle from the 100 series – which Kässbohrer only launched five years later. Rather, the type designation broke with the usual labelling by rows of seats and proudly denoted the vehicle’s high transport capacity. Nonetheless, as early as in 1963, the S 125 featured many technological advancements and design elements of the later 100 series, such as independent front suspension, air suspension front and rear, steeply inclined windscreen and rear windows, and the lack of the “hump” at the front and rear which had been customary until then.

Setra’s modular system tubular-frame construction not only laid the foundation for a new, more angular design. The self-supporting body’s lightweight construction also resulted in a low empty vehicle weight of 8 tonnes and a huge passenger capacity. The low, level floor throughout rose somewhat behind the rear entrance and opened up into a double step just before the last row of seats – a concession to the straight Henschel six-cylinder engine which, with 11 litres of cubic capacity and 192 hp, ensured powerful acceleration. The ZF four-speed gearbox and short axle ratio, however, limited the top speed to 70 km/h – just right for demanding line services. With a length of 10.65 metres, a wheelbase of 5.35 metres and a turning circle of just 16.5 metres, the S 125 was extremely agile and became a popular service vehicle complement for any existing Setra fleet, especially among private coach operations. 

The wide and easy access through the double-leaf, flush-closing external swing doors leads into a spacious interior. In the front area, the passengers did not take their seats on benches, but rather on carefully crafted double seats – also an innovation at the time. The inclined bracing of the aisle-side seats is reminiscent of modern cantilever seats and offers similar benefits: more foot space and an easy-to-clean floor. And whoever didn’t find a seat couldn’t help but be impressed by the S 125’s 2.26-metre headroom and generous feeling of space.

Since 1990, the Setra S 125 which at one time was the demonstration model for Gebrüder Fuoss KG in Isny, has been an integral part of Setra’s Classic Coach Collection. Today, the speedometer indicates 511,772 kilometres and the Setra S 125 still features the alpine-green stripes, as it did when it joined the Fuoss fleet in 1967. Even after 50 years, this service coach remains an impressive example of the innovative strength and progressive nature that characterised each and every Setra then – and still do today.