Sorry to bring this old thread up, but I just got back from Virginia visiting my parents.
Dad just bought a 1999 Mercedes S500 Grand Edition about a month ago. He had been looking for one, but they are pretty hard to find in good shape. Only 600 were made in 1999.
He had a 1998 S600 that they bought new and sold in 2005, this car sort of resembles that car because of the color and wheels.
I got to spend some good seat time in the S500 Grand Edition, even drove it up to Washington D.C. and took it to my 10 year high school reunion.
I have to say the W140 is one of the best Mercedes vehicles ever made. I know in 1997-1999 quality declined somewhat, but this car still shows how real cars should be made.
Inside it is a vault, no noises, extremely comfortable, simpled yet refined. For being 10 years old the leather & interior look factory fresh. The paint still shines like a mirror and the motor & transmission are just getting warmed up.
The S500 is not super fast, but it does a good job tugging this heavy luxobarge around.
I wish they still put this type of dedication into cars today! Dad also has a '04 Mercedes SL600 and '03 BMW 760Li in the garge.. and although being fantastic cars, they do not have that passion the w140 has.. it is hard to explain.
Anyways... I told my Father if he still has it in March, I am going to buy it for sure. This car has me sold!
Now I know why Chad loves his S320 so much
Here are a few pics:
... as for comparing it to my '96 Fleetwood... HA! There is a reason why this S500 Grand Edition was $100K back in 1999.
I also got to drive his loaded '09 Camry SE (daily driver), it was pretty impressive.
Take care,
Elias
