Having the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a 1998 Benz S500 with remarkably low mileage (just 39,000 miles) was nothing short of a revelation. The car presented itself in what appeared to be immaculate condition, setting the stage for an anticipated test drive to thoroughly assess its merits, just as suggested.
Initial impressions were immediately striking. The engine sprang to life with a robust start, settling into an incredibly quiet idle. The silence within the cabin was almost uncanny, creating a sense of serene isolation – the engine’s power was felt more than heard, a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess. The transmission shifted with seamless fluidity, underscoring the car’s luxurious nature. The power, the way it handled, and the overall feeling of solidity were profoundly impressive. It’s been said that driving a W140 is akin to piloting a jet, and this experience resonated deeply with that sentiment. The sensation is one of effortless command and sophisticated power.
The rapid acceleration was also noteworthy, delivered with an unruffled composure and grace that belies its potent performance. It’s easy to imagine how the S500 could effortlessly outpace expectations, surprising many with its understated yet formidable capabilities.
One interesting observation was the ride height. The 1998 S500 exhibited a front tire to fender clearance of approximately one inch, noticeably less than an identical S420, which had around two inches of clearance. This raises the question of whether the 5.0-liter engine’s additional weight contributes to this slightly lowered stance. Aesthetically, this lower front profile is quite appealing, giving the S500 a more grounded and assertive presence, even lower than my own 260E.
There’s an undeniable truth in the assertion that this era of S-Class Mercedes-Benz represents what the marque is truly meant to be. In fact, the 1997-1999 S-Class, and particularly models like this 1998 Benz S500, stand as a high point for Mercedes-Benz, much like the Great Pyramid symbolizes the zenith of ancient Egyptian engineering. It embodies an era of unparalleled engineering expertise and a commitment to automotive excellence that continues to be admired and sought after today.
