Originally Posted by TylerH860

There's been good and bad Mercedes models for the last 30 years. M104s were lucky to get to 100k without head gaskets failing. What about those first 5 speeds with that engine as well? Head cracking and rod bending 80's 90's diesels. Timing chains tossing in the 80's. The list keeps going. Would these cars be considered as terrible to upkeep in comparison without airmatic?

I would consider owning a rear wheel drive 2003 S430 or S500 as its past the first years issues, has the facelift/pretty taillights, and still has the 722.6 trans.

With the car listed by the OP, you couldn't give it to me. The lights come and go thing would have me heading for the hills. Parts alone to get it up to snuff could exceed the value of the whole friggin' car.