I would like some help. I have been in the market for a great w124 E420. However, of course, what I would really like is a 500E. However, being of moderate means, I woulde like to know the difference in upkeep of these two cars. I'm familiar about MB upkeep - I currently own a 300e which has been perfectly kept up.
Thanks,
Tom

Not much difference, I'd think. Maybe the 500 has a few options that 400s didn't often have (rear sunshade, adaptive rear suspension, passenger airbag), but all the systems are pretty much common to both.

Only increased expense running a 500 vs 400 relate to wear items such as tires & brakes, since you WILL drive the 500 harder I'm betting

Good luck with your hunt...

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"If God had meant for us to walk, why did he give us feet that fit car pedals?" Sir Sterling Moss

Michael
2014 E63S Estate
2006 SLK55
1995 E500
1986 Porsche 944 turbo

I can not give any input on the costs between models, but I can say this.

If it means saving an extra 6 months to afford a higher mileage 500E, I say it's well worth the wait. After all you did say that is what you want.

As far as the airbags go all 400E/E420's had driver and passanger airbags. I am not sure but I believe that the sun shde was optional for the 400E/E420. I belive that all 124's recieved pasanger airbags in 93.
Subman

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Maintenance on a 500E should be little, if at all, higher than a 420. in fact, the difference in maintenance between a 500E and a 300E is quite low.

This can be attributed to the fact that most of the parts on a 500E were out of the regular parts bins at DB. Those that weren't crossover parts from other models are easily obtainable from any MB dealership as they are all catalogued. Although of the more esoteric pars you may have to wait a little longer while they ship it out from Germany.

The only caveat would be to ensure that any 500E you consider buying has been properly maintained. As always, a car that has been driven hard and maintained poorly will become a money pit no matter the make.

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'94 W124.036 249/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'93 W124.036 199/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs, up in flames...LITERALLY!
'93 W124.036 481/040 leder; euro delivery; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'88 R107.048 441/409 leder; Euro lights
'87 W201.034 199/040 leder; Euro lights; EvoII brakes; 8x16 EvoIs - soon: 500E rear brakes
'70 R113.044 050/526; factory alloys; Euro lights