1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S320 review from UK and Ireland

I've only owned this car for two months, so this will be updated, but I thought it was worth an early review. Previous car was a Merc E Class estate (W124), which did 150k miles before I gave it to my brother for what I hope is another huge mileage.

I checked out a few W140 S class Mercs before finding this one. Ex company Director's car, single owner, full paperwork, low miles (51k) for an 8 yr old car. Every conceivable toy that was available in 1998 except, oddly, a CD player, but that's an easy retrofit. Metallic black, but tan leather interior looked shabby - actually only needed a clean. A few niggles like steering pulling a bit to the left and a leak in the boot - probably like the other review, through a loose plastic trim at the back above the bumper. This was a £50,000 car when new and now no-one wants them because people fear the running and fuel cost. An S Class is not for the fainthearted - £80 to fill the tank, but it's worth it. Servicing? Almost every city has a Merc specialist and the w140, while complex, is not as electronic as later models. If you buy a decent W140, it's worth the cost of an initial dealer service (Good advice for any serious car you buy). Merc dealerships have a justifiable image of arrogance and ignoring the customer, but if you befriend the guys in the spares and service department they are usually a different breed and want to help. Even at £70 hour for labour, these guys are not like the salesmen! The dashboard electronics will tell you when you need a service, but it's better if you do so when you buy the car, irrespective of what the service record says. Just remember to also ask for a diagnostic check on everything. They want your continued custom (and money), so you usually get a huge list of faults and service items that are 'urgent'. Sort through that for the things thatb really need attention and get them done at a specialist. Between than and oil changes every 6000 miles (ignore anyone who says you can run a car like this on longer oil change intervals) you should be good for miles of motoring pleasure. I'll do another review in six months to see if I was right!

Over two tonnes of metal, but fast enough with the 3.2 engine - the 2.8 version is just a bit underpowered.

Comfortable beyond expectations and just what I need for long runs on the motorway.

The car has the presence you'd expect of a big Merc. No wonder it's still the choice of dictators worldwide.