Thanks Jim.
Of course I agree with everything you said. Personally, I think all Mercedes should be either Black or Silver... but, that's just me.
I think 1996 was a good year for the S Class as Mercedes did a "freshening up" that year including installing the M119.980 engine in this car. No more fussing with distributors, ignition wires and all the associated pieces. Believe it was also the first year for the 722.6 transmission.
No wiring issues either because of insulation cracking, etc.
In this fitment, the dual overhead cam aluminum V8 produces 315 hp yet delivers over 20 mpg average consistently.
Had a V12 many years back... required constant attention and the insurance rates were rediculously high. Anyone considering a V12 needs to call their insurance company for a sobering "wake up".
Occasionally, I used to see other S Class Coupes when living down South, but haven't seen another in about 5 years now.
Alas, when I moved from Virginia to New Hampshire, the KENZ BNZ plate went away... now she sports a plain old, run of the mill set of plates.