Rainmaker , Somewhere in this site ( use the search feature) I was looking at the same information for a friend who was considering a brand new S class or used. The articles were read cover to cover and he purchased a 97 S500 and has been extremely pleased ( almost 2 years later ).
Hope this helps.
Alan

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92 500E Silver 66k
82 Porsche 911SC 84K
68 Cadillac ( Gone Now )
03 Suburban Z71 200K
85 300SD 217k From Original Owner ( Dad )