1984 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 500 SEL 5.0 V* Gas

Summary:

Wolf in sheep's clothing. German masterpiece

Faults:

Left front window regulator broke, one day after purchase at 100,000 miles. This is typical of these cars.

Front tie rods, shocks, brakes misc. front end stuff at purchase at 100,000 miles. ($800).

Air conditioning evaporator, used from mechanic at 100,000 miles ($200).

Radiator and thermostat replaced at 108,000 miles. $500.

Distributor cap and rotor crack, wouldn't start after heavy rain at 109,000 miles. $124.

General Comments:

The poor car was not maintained properly before I rescued it.

The radiator was a faulty used one before I had it. The car was running hot, even in cool weather. Replaced radiator, that fixed problem.

This is just a great car. Deceptively fast for such a big and heavy car.

Fast yet safe for my two children, who love the rear power reclining seat.

Smooth and comfortable ride. The only thing I don't like about the car is that I want to pass my exit on the freeway, just to enjoy it some more. I look for any excuse to drive this car, hence the 10,000 miles in 3 months.

Overall, a great car. A little more expensive than my previous car, (Volvo 240), but a lot more exciting to drive.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd September, 2007

1984 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 380SE 3.8 V8

Summary:

Well-made classic bank vault

Faults:

Starter solenoid worn.

Ignition switch worn.

Ball Joints replaced.

General Comments:

The materials in the car just aren't available in newer cars, it seems. The leather, although 23 years old, is still supple and smells new. The exterior finish is gorgeous, and it shows that these cars were built with cost being no object.

The structure is second only to a bank vault, and feels safer than many newer air-bag laden vehicles.

You can still balance a quarter on the running engine, and it gets decent mileage for a V8. Although it's not particularly quick around town, it will cruise at whatever speed you like (legal or highly illegal) all day long, and leave you without fatigue, thanks to great seats and an incredibly quiet interior.

Keeping in mind its age and mileage, it's a real treat for an occasional driver.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th April, 2007

19th Nov 2008, 15:20

Update -- Now at 310K -- Although a few things failed this summer; namely the fuel pump relay, another power window regulator, and a door latch, I still love this old Mercedes. Passengers and other motorists often comment on it being a nice classic car.

As before, the car is a real treat to drive. The car feels safe and strong, built with the best materials and craftsmanship. The interior still looks and smells new, and the V8 runs smoothly and quietly as always. Looking forward to driving it again next summer.

1984 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 380 SE 3.8L V8

Summary:

Great - but once it starts to cost money - get rid of it!!!

Faults:

At the end of its life with us (200,000 miles) - just about everything.

General Comments:

My father bought this car new in 1984 - was a great car for about 8 of the 10 years we had it. By the middle of year 8, everything on the car was breaking, and since we were approaching 200K on the odometer, we had to pay for everything.

At the end, the car could not accelerate with the A/C on. But, it was a very good car for many years, and our family survived being slammed at over 50MPH from behind because of this car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th March, 2007

1984 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 500 EC 5.0L

Summary:

My 1984 500 SEC is a very well build and innovated car that feels great to drive

Faults:

The first day the AC compressor failed. It was replaced with little cost and time.

While giving "her" a bath I noticed the sunroof leaks on the front corners.

General Comments:

I recently recently bought this car here in Kuwait. There were not many cars in the same price range to consider. I chose one that was heavy because there are many accidents here and I need safety when my wife is with me. This car, although 22 years old, has been garage parked and is in very nice shape, inside and out. Parts and repair is not expensive here in Kuwait and easily available. I have fell deeply in love with the feel of this car and the way it handles. There are many small detail problems to work on, none really needed, but it will bring me closer to a true understanding of this classic. Now I am very happy that my choice was a Mercedes Benz.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th June, 2006