I am thinking about buying a 1994 - 1996 S600. What are the high's and lows of these models? What are the common problems?

dpbrowne,

The V12 has a tendency to overheat, the evaporator breaks (and requires the *whole* dashboard to be removed to replace), and the suspension has to be rebuilt every 30K. Other than that, its a solid car... That's just for the w140 S600 in general... off the top of my head so to speak.

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Jonathan
1998 S600
2001 E430
1994 E320
1991 560SEL
1994 Turbo R

Although the 94-96 S Class all look the same, from a powertrain perspective you're describing two different cars.
The 94 and 95 are virtually identical. The 96 is significantly different. In fact, the engine identification numbers are different... the 94/95 engine is a 120.980 while the 96 is a 120.982.
The 96 was the first year for Mercedes to introduce electronic powertrain management with the ME 1 system. As a result, the 96 has all electronic ignition (no distributors!). It also is the first year that OBDII was introduced in the W140s. I find OBDII to be extremely helpful in maintaining my car.
The powertrain electronics also control an entirely new 5 speed automatic, the 722.6.
Also, for 1996, a new climate control package was introduced with a different dash controller.
Now, whether or not these were improvements depends on who you talk to... but, personally, unless the 94/95 is an exceptional buy, I'd buy a 96 or newer.
Like all cars, the W140s have some unique issues. Search on W140 in the Tech Help section of this site and you'll find plenty.
Hope this helps. If you want more specifics, I've got some tech specs on the 1996 W140s.

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KenP

1996 S500 W140 Coupe

Thank you for your help.