The W221 is due out in 2005, and due to customer resistance to gadgetry and over-complex control systems, its is uunderstood that the next generation S-class have scaled back massive hi-tech plans.

This was plucked from the Car report Issue 486, Feb 2003 at page 25.

Isn't too fast that the 220 is being phased out??





PS. For those who could get their hands on that issue, an excellent write up on the RR.

__________________
... Kerry

126 tailed by a 203, 129 leading the pack.

I think it says something that Mercedes is coming out with a new model all ready. I mean if you look back at models like the w126 which was in production for over a decade and then look at the new models the production span just keeps getting shorther and shorter. At least it's my take on it.

Seems like the new ones lose their charm (if they ever had any) really fast.

W123 - 1977-1985 (9 years)
W124 - 1986 - 1995 (10 years)
W126 - 1981 - 1991 (11 years)
W201 - 1984 - 1993 (10 years)

W210 (1996 - 2002) (seven years)
W202 (1994 - 2001) (seven years)
W220 (2000 - 2005?) (six years possibly?)
W208 CLK (1998 - 2002) (only five years)

I have always thought it good for a model to keep running for 8 to 10 years, even with face lifts.

But for the S-class to be phased out by a new model in 2005 would do not good to the holding value of the current 220s.

Imagine if I bought myself a new W220 2 years ago, and the 221 is coming in at 2005 at about the same price? Not a very good book exit would it?

__________________
... Kerry

126 tailed by a 203, 129 leading the pack.