I have driven W124's for something like 220K miles. I can tell you they have consumed some serious maintenance dollars. I was faced with the "what's next decision " about 9 months ago. The '92 300E was at 242K.

I had labored under the internet based impression that the W140's were a money pit. They, no doubt, can be if you choose the wrong car. However, further investigation changed my mind. I decided to search for a '97 to '99 S320 in good condition with records. I might be more nervous about the V8 version, but that too might be a false assumption.

The one I found and purchased turned out to be a local car with 109K and full dealer records, $11,700. The car had a head gasket R&R, a MAS R&R, a Blower Regulator, and a few other things done over the years. The M104 engine has 228 HP and is bullet proof. The think is built like a tank. Normal maintenance service, if anything, is easier than the 300E. There is simply more room in that big engine compartment.

So I had the lower control arm bushings done. I replaced the front rotors and pads. Did the transmission service. Put in some new Bilstein front shocks just for the hell of it. Car is a dream on the highway! Seats are the best. Bose stereo with trunk CD changer is great.

The paint quality is excellent. Mine is Black Opal Pearl Metallic which translates to an almost blackish dark navy blue. If you look closely at some of the newer MB's you will see some orange peel. W140 has none. I also have zero rust issues even though the car spent it's first 3 years in New Jersey.

My conclusion is that it's simply a car with a proven I-6 engine, an electronic transmission, and standard rear suspension. So far it's been very reliable. Gets a little over 21 mpg on the highway at 75 mph. It's also plenty fast enough for any sort of normal driving.

Steve
'97 S320 116K
'92 300E 242K