1997 Mercedes-Benz S-Class review from North America

Both side mirrors internal cast metal framing cracked, tilting and dropping the entire plastic housing; this really looks bad.

The self closing feature has gone haywire, affecting the truck sealing, though the truck can be shut manually, the seal is not made so going through the car wash is not a good idea. This is a common problem with the W140 vehicle.

The paint was really bad for the age of car. The Mercedes is notorious for corrosion. It is surprising that Mercedes would allow this to be a continuing issue.

The front leather seats are truly unremarkable. They have lasted, but just barely; stitching is beginning to separate. Feels like I'm on an old sofa!

Rear passengers have to deal with continuous cold air through the rear vents.

The car is truly impressive. The engine is a dream. The car feels absolutely stable at high speed and I believe it is designed for the freeway. Acceleration and braking are very good, though not performance. This model was years ahead with automatic raindrop sensors on the windshield, and fuel efficiency comparable, or even better than my 2002 Honda Odyssey.

I used to own a 5 Series BMW, and it outperformed the Merc any day, but I feel a lot safer in the Mercedes.

Interior space is large, and the trunk is huge. The double pain glass keeps all sound to a minimum.