Quote:
Originally Posted by pj67coll
I don't think the 140 is built like crap. I think they are the last true tank like Mercedes. I think their problems stem not from inadequate build quality but from horrifyingly overly complex subsystems like the climate control, and the unfortunate effect of ecofreaks on the wiring harness etc. But the basic car is probably as solid as you can find.
I saw one in the parking lot of Fry's electronics yesterday. A dark green S420 that literally stopped me in my tracks. It looked like it had just been driven out of the showroom it was that awesome. I desire one of them greatly apart from two three things.
1) I'll likely never have the money to keep one in good repair. Or buy one which is...
2) I can't stand the downsized steering wheel which makes it impossible for me to rest my left elbow on the door while lightly holding the wheel with my left hand.
3) The low setting of the center console "armrest" that's too low for me to rest my right arm on as opposed to previous models that had proper seat mounted armrests.
These last two points may seem like nit-picking to some but they kill the whole essence of a Mercedes for me, which is to be able to drive a particularly comfortable arm chair down the highway. Somewhat like taking my favorite lazyboy recliner on the road.
- Peter.
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Oh, I am not one of those people that thinks they are built like crap. In fact, I think they were one of the best S-Classes ever built. I think that they get a bad rep from those people that neglect their cars, or purchased one that was neglected. I personally think that in the 90s they were bought by people who weren't the type to do preventative maintainence, and simply drove it to within inches of its life.
I think that if I ever come across a properly sorted W140 with records, I am going to pick it up. My neighbor has a 95 S600, with an AMG body kit/wheels. It looks stunning, really the last of the big bodied Mercedes built.
I also saw a white S420 in the Mercedes dealers showroom over summer. It looked immaculate. They wanted alot though, but I am sure it would have been worth it.