2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S430 review from North America

Door hardware rattles intermittently, and dealer can't diagnose it after trying everything including replacing latches, etc.

Some electronics (Navigation, Voice Recognition) are non-intuitive and require either a good memory or frequent review of the owner's manual.

Entry-level leather is well below expectations (I was spoiled by my old Jaguar's Connolly leather).

Phone is a proprietary Mercedes/Motorola phone that is not upgradeable, so you're stuck with the technology of the year the car was sold.

The 4.3L V8 feels somewhat underpowered given the weight of the car.

Has a decent growl upon accelerating and transmission is smooth as silk with no noticeable shift points.

Very smooth air suspension with multiple adjustments to stiffen the ride if you want a sportier feel on the twisties.

So much room inside you could hold a poker game. Quiet as a bank vault too.

Styling is head and shoulders above the competition, IMHO. You won't see another luxury sedan that you feel looks nicer.

Get the Sport package with 18" wheels, as the standard 16" wheels look too small relative to the size of the car.

Premium Bose stereo sounds excellent. CD changer is in the trunk, unfortunately.