The early ones have front sub-frame issues where the lower control arms bolt-on. If the play is too large the WHOLE front aluminum sub frame must be replaced.

I want to say it is about $3k to $5k for the part, but the monumental task of the engine alignment, and etc....

A W140 is way cheaper to maintain in terms of dollars....

The PSE(door lock pumps) on the early ones are known to melt down...about $1k

That shock pump is about $1.5k to $2k.. Dealer Shocks are $1.5k to $1.8k a piece. Someone rebuilds the shocks for about $700 a piece...

I'm a fan of W140, and I have two of them. Even if you blow a transmission on a W140 it is chump-change to the suspension issues the W220's can sink a person...

All the best,

Martin