1989 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 420SEL 4.2 petrol V8

Summary:

The best sedan I have ever owned excellent

Faults:

The mono valve for the heater, total cost to repair $80.

General Comments:

This would have to be one of the most classic styled Merc's ever made, it still turns heads 25 years after it first hit the road.

The space and comfort still leave many a modern luxury car looking cramped, the leather still looks like new. For interstate cruising they don't get any more comfortable than a long wheelbase S-class.

The V8 would have to be one of the smoothest engines I have ever driven. The car has relentless power for travelling across Australia at very high speeds.

The build quality and reliability is nothing short of amazing. This would be the most beautiful sedan I have ever owned.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th June, 2007

18th Jul 2007, 05:17

I have a 420sel merc very nice car one of best I ever owned when I got it. it was alright, but three days later smoke was came out if the exhaust, had it looked at, mechanics said $3,000 he thought it was the injectors, but I replaced them myself, still same thing, so a month later went to another mechanic he said $9,000 the whole motor got rebuilt, it was worth every penny. best car if one looks after her very pleasing to the eye.smooth

1989 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 420 SEL

Summary:

Only for those that can afford the constant repair bills

Faults:

Seat springs broken.

Rust in the rear window frame.

Leaks oil.

Uses a lot of petrol.

A/C broken.

General Comments:

To keep this car in good order is very expensive. As soon as one thing is repaired, another breaks down. The mechanic is now talking about a timing chain that needs fixing... I have spent so much money - about three times what I paid for the car. And it came with a full service history.

Very nice styling and a well designed interior. Pity about the reliability.

A good car for wealthy people who can afford the crazy repair bills - if you don't think you can, do not buy a S-Class MB!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 27th May, 2006

28th May 2006, 18:28

Let's see here, a 1989 MBZ that you bought used most likely with over 100,000 miles on it and you still expect it to be perfect? Most cars timing belts go out at this point after normal wear and tear, it's to be expected. What on earth do you expect from a car that is nearly 20 years old and has been well-driven? It's not new and once the repairs are out, it will serve you well. Just get it straight, your car is old, things will break down. If you can't accept this, you shouldn't have bought a used car in the first place.

13th Jun 2011, 12:06

Should have bought a Volvo 240! Over 214k miles on mine. NO, and I mean NO, costly repairs!