2001 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S320L 3.2L
Summary:
One of the most desirable full size sedans
Faults:
Replaced A/C pump as the A/C would not work occasionally. Now it is perfect.
General Comments:
Great car to have. Very comfortable and reliable.
Air seat, sunroof, auto rear sun blind & rear side curtain are useful options for Asia or any hot areas. Other recommend options: keyless go, xenon lights, TV front & rear.
Must get the long version, which makes a big difference (although less than 6 inches) in feel and comfort, even for kids & family.
Handling is below BMW (similar model (7 Series) of the same year), but much much better than any Lexus made the same year.
The 3.2L is very economical for highway use. Even more efficient than Japanese 3.0L engines, but uses twice the fuel in city driving.
As I know the most expensive possible and common repairs are 1) electronic suspension 2) air conditioning 3) steering.
Interior plastic used and assembly are of lesser quality than previous Mercedes, but still very good. The latest S Class is much improved, but costs more!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 10th August, 2007
2nd May 2008, 03:24
This is a great car to buy used, but do stay away from 99 & 00, the first years models, which have so many electrical problems!
You can buy used & use it for 2 years, and can still sell at 70 to 80% of year buying price!
Make sure you get one with low mileage, and many parts do wear out after 100,000 km, and could be costly to replace.
As for the repairs & maintenance, it could cost 1/2to 2/3 less using a local garages, and Mercedes dealers can be very expensive, and not too professional (they just replace all possible problems parts without making any repairs!)
If do mostly highway driving, do get the V8 or V12, but if do mostly city driving and mix, the S320L is the best choice. The bigger engines could use 40 to 100% more gas in city driving, and only 10 to 25% more for highways than the V6s. This is the way the car is designed!
The short version should not be sold, and the long version is a must option!
Good luck for finding your next S class!