1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 420 SEL review from North America
"Better quality than the new S430 and S500"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Cooling system.
General comments?
The Mercedes-Benz 420 SEL is solid, safe, ergonomic, roomy, responsive, stable and quick which delivers 201 horsepower @ 228lbs of torque. This car does not have a bad gas mileage rating for a large V-8 engine because I get about 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the freeway. Typically, these older S-Class Mercedes models like the 350 SDL, 420 SEL, and the 560 SEL are designed for long distance freeway driving.
The only concern is the timing chain which can bend the valves if you fail to repair it in a timely manner. I was told by my mechanic that, if the car starts to jump during sudden acceleration, then the chain may need to be adjusted or replaced. It is best to check the timing chain during your oil change or maintenance service by a reputable Mercedes repair facility.
Recommended reviews
  | 1987 - S-Class 420 SEL 4.2 Liter V 8 I am in awe of it. I doubt that there are very many 1987 420 SEL's in better condition |
| 1986 - S-Class 560SEL 5.6L DOHC V8 Better than any new car under $35,000 |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.2 V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 219523 miles |
| Most recent distance | 219683 miles |
| Date of Entry | 21st June, 2005 |