1982 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 380 SEC review from North America
"Perhaps too much motorcar for the modern era"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced wiper motor.
Replaced starter motor.
Front brake pads.
Exhaust system including cat.
Shift lever bushing.
Injectors cleaned.
General comments?
Pretty much the flagship of the Mercedes fleet in its day, this handsome coupe was a favorite of movie stars, rich oil barons and the odd 'Miami Vice' villain.
A quarter century later a great deal of the original magic still remains, as it is sleek and silent with great presence.
The down side is of course it's a complex vehicle with accompanying expense to repair when something does finally break.
The 3.8 V-8 engine is almost bulletproof, but a little anemic for a 4000 pound car, and is still way too thirsty for the $4.50 gallon Hi-test era.
Not overloaded with gadgets like later models, it did feature a device which would slide out like a valet's arm to offer you the seat belt. Mine has worked exactly twice in four years; scaring hell outta me both times.
They are now cheaper than mulch, but still impresses the ladies.. especially if you intimate it was previously owned by Harrison Ford. (Hey, Jon Voight was already taken..)
Recommended reviews
| 1982 - S-Class 300SD 3.0L turbo diesel My opinion... no matter what...it's still a Mercedes. |
|
| One word... WOW |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1982 |
| Year of manufacture | 1982 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 128000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 210000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz C-Class |
| Date of Entry | 27th June, 2008 |