For any automotive enthusiast, the allure of a new car is a familiar itch. The gleam of fresh paint, the scent of a pristine interior, and the promise of cutting-edge performance – it’s a potent combination. However, the practicalities of car ownership, especially for someone with a penchant for the diverse and fascinating world of automobiles, often lead to a more considered approach. Writing about cars, dissecting their merits and flaws, can be a surprisingly effective way to navigate the temptation to buy, and perhaps more importantly, to appreciate the vehicles that truly capture our attention.
Recently, the familiar car bug resurfaced. Having enjoyed a spirited 2020 Subaru WRX for the past half-year – a vehicle chosen for its performance pedigree, strong resale value, and the increasingly rare manual transmission – the desire for something different began to stir. The joy of engaging with a manual gearbox is undeniable, the connection to the car and the road a visceral experience. Yet, as is often the case with automotive passions, the initial novelty can wane. And when the market presents an unexpectedly attractive offer for a well-maintained vehicle, the mind starts to wander.
For those acquainted with the musings on mercedesxentry.store and similar automotive platforms, a certain predilection for grand German sedans, particularly those bearing the three-pointed star, should come as no surprise. The appeal of a substantial, elegantly engineered Mercedes-Benz is deeply rooted in automotive history and resonates with a desire for a blend of luxury, performance, and timeless design. While the charm of a vintage Mercedes, like a meticulously preserved 1972 280SEL 4.5, is undeniable, the practicalities of daily driving often necessitate a more modern blend of comfort and dependability.
Thus began the familiar online automotive exploration. A virtual tour through Autotrader, Hemmings, Cars.com, eBay, and even international marketplaces like Mobile.de, seeking a vehicle that could capture the imagination and fulfill the desire for a refined driving experience. Among the myriad of listings, one particular car stood out: a 1998 Mercedes-Benz S420 advertised on eBay in Lodi, New Jersey, with a “Buy It Now” price of $6,795.
The Captivating Details of a High-Mileage Classic: 1998 Mercedes S420
What initially drew attention to this particular 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was its unusual and striking Azure Blue paint. In a world often dominated by monochrome hues, this splash of color made the W140 chassis S420 immediately stand out. Mercedes-Benz W140s are frequently seen in more conservative shades like Black, Smoke Silver, or White, making this Azure Blue example a refreshing departure from the norm. Upon closer digital inspection, the car presented itself as remarkably well-preserved, especially considering the typical condition of many W140s on the used market, barring low-mileage, garage-queen specimens. The paint appeared vibrant, the leather seats showed a gentle patina of age rather than neglect, and the wood trim… ah, the wood.
The interior of this 1998 S-Class boasted the quintessential Mercedes-Benz burlwood accents, seemingly untouched by time. This detail alone spoke volumes about the care this car had received. Delving into the eBay listing, beyond the standard marketing phrases about “style” and “comfort,” certain details began to emerge. Terms like “lovingly cared for” and mentions of features like “soft close doors and moonroof” are common in used car ads. However, the inclusion of “records,” “all keys,” and “books” for an eBay listing raised an eyebrow of intrigued skepticism. It suggested a level of meticulous ownership rarely seen in the online used car marketplace.
Then came the mileage: 213,553 miles. A figure that, in many circles, would immediately disqualify a vehicle from consideration. Yet, in the context of a Mercedes-Benz, and particularly the W140 generation S-Class, high mileage takes on a different meaning. Mercedes-Benz built its reputation on engineering excellence, on the principle of “the best or nothing,” and the W140 arguably represents the zenith of this philosophy. This generation of S-Class was renowned for its robust construction and longevity. Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal and driving dynamics of these cars remain undeniably compelling.
The Power and Refinement of the M119 V8 Engine
Personal experience further fueled the consideration of this high-mileage S420. Having previously owned and daily-driven a 1994 E420 equipped with the same 4,196cc dual overhead cam M119 V8 engine, there was a familiarity and appreciation for this powerplant. While the S500’s 5.0-liter variant offers a slight horsepower advantage, the S420’s 286 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque are more than sufficient for comfortable and effortless cruising. The essence of the W140 S-Class is not outright speed, but rather effortless power and refined motion, qualities the S420 delivers in spades. A 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 153 mph were remarkable figures for a sedan of this size and weight (4,200 lbs) in 1998. Moreover, the S420 boasts a marginally better highway fuel economy than the S500, further adding to its pragmatic appeal.
The question then becomes: why even contemplate a car with such significant mileage? The answer lies in several key factors.
Condition, Heritage, and Intangibles: The Appeal Beyond the Miles
Firstly, condition is paramount. Years of experience in the used luxury car market reveal a stark reality: despite being a substantial investment for most owners, vehicles are often subjected to neglect and less-than-ideal maintenance. This 1998 S420, however, presented a different narrative. Despite its mileage, it displayed no obvious signs of abuse. The interior appeared clean and well-cared for, the bodywork straight and gleaming, and the documented history suggested consistent maintenance and attentive ownership. This car conveyed the impression of being cherished, not just used.
Secondly, there’s an undeniable appeal to substantial, perhaps even “over-engineered” cars, particularly from Mercedes-Benz. Previous ownership of a W140 S600 V12 provided a taste of the model’s inherent grandeur. While the V12 S600 offered unparalleled highway cruising, it also presented the complexities and potential maintenance challenges associated with a more intricate powertrain. The W140 chassis, in all its iterations, possesses a solidity and bank-vault-like construction that is rarely encountered in modern vehicles.
Thirdly, while the M120 V12 engine is a marvel of engineering, the V8 M119 offers a more accessible ownership experience. The V8 is still potent and refined, but parts availability and accumulated knowledge within the enthusiast community are more readily available compared to the V12. Furthermore, the fuel consumption of the V8 is demonstrably less extravagant.
Finally, there’s an intangible “good feeling” emanating from this particular 1998 S420. The inclusion of three keys, the complete set of owner’s manuals, the absence of visible fluid leaks, functional air conditioning, matching Michelin tires, and even period-correct Euro-style ribbed floor mats all contribute to a sense of fastidious ownership and pride. With continued regular maintenance, the M119 V8 engine should offer many more miles of reliable performance. By 1998, the W140 was nearing the end of its production run, suggesting that many of the initial production quirks had been addressed. Components prone to failure, such as air conditioning evaporators and problematic wiring harnesses, would likely have manifested issues earlier in the car’s life. While ongoing maintenance would be a given, the prospect of owning and enjoying this classic Mercedes-Benz remained compelling.
And let’s not forget the heated seats – a quintessential luxury feature that adds a touch of comfort and indulgence.
Conclusion: A Tempting Classic, But Perhaps Not Today
So, what prevents a definitive decision to acquire this intriguing 1998 Mercedes-Benz S420? The primary factor is a matter of automotive trajectory. Transitioning directly from a sporty Subaru WRX to a large, luxurious sedan might be too significant a shift. Furthermore, the presence of a classic Mercedes sedan already in the garage (a W108) suggests a potential redundancy. The current inclination leans towards something with a slightly sharper edge, a bit more performance-oriented, perhaps in the realm of a W210 E55 AMG.
However, the allure of this Azure Blue 1998 Mercedes-Benz S420 lingers. It represents a compelling blend of classic Mercedes-Benz engineering, understated luxury, and surprising value. Perhaps the best course of action is to extend an open invitation: someone should buy this remarkable car and allow for the pleasure of experiencing it from the driver’s seat.
