S550 Durability???
 

Ok, never owned a gasser benz before, but have been looking recently. Ihave 2 diesels, but I kind of what to get a gasser. I found a 96 s500 and was wanting to know if how reliable the engine in this car is.

And if anyone has any opinions on what motors are best in a late model benz (late 90's, early 2000's) I would surely appreciate it.

Thanks,

Jeff

The M119 is a very good engine, weakest point is LACK of oil changes!

For Longevity and cost I would go with a late model S320. The later model W140's have the last rev firmware on all the electronics and are easier to find replacements for. The 6cyl's have a lower service cost and develop plenty of power (230hp in my 99). They also get really amazing fuel economy. I get about 25mpg in my car. The W140 is an amazing handling and driving car for its size.

They also don't sell for the "premium" that the V8 powered cars do as many owners don't know they exist. This allows you to be able to afford a much nicer example.

The only advice I would give you is to "park" one before you buy it. My SWB S320 is a very wide car and is difficult to get into small spaces. A full length S500 would be even more of a parking nightmare. I am not able to drive my 140 to work because of the small parking deck. While the car is physically able to fit in the spaces door dings and getting in and out are another problem.