1989 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 300SEL review from North America
"Unbeatable luxury and performance for the dollar"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Valve guides.
Paint faded.
Radiator neck broke off.
A/C compressor changed twice.
Tires should be Michelins, and they are just expensive, ($200 +/-). Cheap tires will not perform or balance properly.
General comments?
If I did not have a great mechanic, I would not love this car like I do. If you want to keep the car in pristine condition, there are several common breakables that will need to be fixed.
The car now drives and runs better than most new cars, and I like the style and design better as well.
The inline six is economical and has plenty of power. One of my favorite things to do is hear the tires chirp as it hits second gear.
Amazing handling for a big car. No Caddy or Lincoln can compare within ten years.
I am considering upgrading to larger rims and higher performance tires. Possibly installing the lowering spring kit. I would like to hear any feedback on these types of mods, and what I can do to squeeze even more power from the I-6 without ruining the reliability?
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| Roomy family stylish sedan that hauls it weight effortlessly |
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| Last of its kind |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1989 |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 46000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 118000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL |
| Date of Entry | 16th August, 2005 |