S class for 3.5 grand am i mad

[K321]

hi, i am seriously considering an S Class, budget 3.5grand. i have seen the curvier shaped ones, for this price, or is it better to get a better condition more square shaped one, or should i forget the idea ? it will be the 320 model

[Chordiant]

K321 said:

hi, i am seriously considering an S Class, budget 3.5grand. i have seen the curvier shaped ones, for this price, or is it better to get a better condition more square shaped one, or should i forget the idea ? it will be the 320 model

The more 'square' shape - the W140 - is acknowledged to be the last 'proper' Mercedes built to a specification i.e. over-engineered so heavily, that it actually cost more to build than it could be sold for.

..........and then cometh the Bean Counters...!!!!

The result? The S-Class built to a price and the demise of real Mercedes engineering.

p.s. I own a W140, Business Edition S320L.

[K321]

i have seen a 320 Lwb in obsidian black 1998 for 2300 but the for 2700 there are a few S430 and S320 2000 year models. The interior on those models look more modern and plusher, but I recall that Mercs built between in that era were poorly engineered and suffer rust, thus I am unsure if i go for it, should I go for the more square shaped albeit older example which could prove more reliable?

[Biglips]

The earlier w140 is the one to go for. Yes, it will feel/ look a little dated but the engineering quality is incredible. Make sure all the electrics work.. They still suffer from rust so check carefully.

[XB70]

Biglips said:

The earlier w140 is the one to go for. Yes, it will feel/ look a little dated but the engineering quality is incredible. Make sure all the electrics work.. They still suffer from rust so check carefully.

Check the head gasket on the W140 you are looking at too.

[Jw Vw]

As said the W140 is the one to go for. The last proper hewn from granite Mercedes. Then the cost cutting came in....