I have a '97 S420, '99 ML320, and an '01 S600 (bought them all new). The S600 has had only one issue. The #1 fuel injector went bad at 48,500 miles. I put a new one on (after my shop diagnosed bad coil packs, which I replaced to no avail) and the car is back to perfect. Other than that, there have been no problems. The MB dealer loves to see them come into their shop because they believe anybody with one undrestands that the repairs will be big $$$ Not true if you are a decent mechanic with proper tools. I say go for it, and set aside $100 a month for maintenance reserves.