1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S280 review from Australia and New Zealand
"Big, comfortable... a real head turner around town."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing has gone wrong for myself or the previous NZ owner of this car. It has an impeccable service history both from Singe and NZ.
Bought this car after much deliberation. Being ex-Singapore I had been warned that the electrics may have issues due to the humidity. Had this checked out and so far everything is in good working condition.
General comments?
Having driven far smaller and quicker cars in the past, driving this "tank" has been a new experience. It takes a whole different style of driving to really appreciate its ride and handling. Slow and unhurried comes to mind... but put pedal to metal and it just takes off...
So spacious, beautiful leather seats with the most amazing controls. Recently sat in a friend's C200K and the seat adjustments were nowhere near as accommodating as the S280s.
I bought a 10-year-old car for $NZ8500 which has all the features of a current new car that could have set me back maybe $NZ30-$NZ40,000 ... and it's ruby red!! Some what more character than silver or black,
It's a huge jump from my previous car (which my daughter has inherited) which was a 1300cc 95 Ford Laser.
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| The best traveling companion money can buy |
|
| Comfort out-weights poor reliability |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 109000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 110000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Laser |
| Date of Entry | 31st July, 2007 |