W140 - a daft idea as a daily drive

[Palfrem]

Mercedes-Benz S320 (W140) For Sale (1997) on Car And Classic UK

When my E36 goes into the garage for the winter I'll be needing some wheels.

Just watched Transporter and found myself thinking how good those black S Classes looked. Mind you, his 7 series BMW was nice too.

Am I deluded? Money pits or a serious proposition as the ultimate smoker barge

There was a red one on eBay for around £4500 - looked good too.

Seek out a fully loaded good-un? Any thoughts chaps?

[jaymanek]

Ive got a nice 280 coming in.. on my website now, pictures soon

[brigadier]

It shouldn't be money pit if you get one of late 1997/1998 w140's with reasonable mileage. They have some known troubles like every car, like evaporator. Engines, suspension are simple and reliable, compared to newer s-klasses. I would look for example with most options, some would say less for less problems, but then they shouldn't look at w140's.

[Adam230K]

It will drink the same as the 500... get the 500!

[A1GSS]

I had a W140 CL500 for several years, used it to commute from Essex to Manchester. Apart from the propensity for fuel (quite considerable), it was a fabulous long distance commuter. Reliability surprisingly good. Looks are subjective... Parking was a bit of an issue, the saloon would be "easier" as the coupé's doors are very long. Two spaces made it easier...