For enthusiasts looking into owning a piece of Mercedes-Benz history, the W140 series, which includes the Benz 400, often comes into consideration. Having spent considerable time researching and experiencing ownership of an early W140 model, here are some key points to consider if you are thinking about a Benz 400 or any W140 from the early years.
One notable aspect of the early W140s, including some Benz 400 models, is the instrument cluster. Interestingly, like many owners of early models, the previous owner of my W140 had the digital mileage display in the dash cluster replaced under warranty. This is a common occurrence in these early vehicles, so it’s something to be aware of when evaluating a Benz 400.
Another area of concern for W140 models, including the Benz 400, is the air conditioning system. The air conditioning evaporator is a known weakness. While my own car’s climate control system is currently functioning well, despite being located in a hot climate, I am aware that evaporator failure is a potential issue. Repair costs for this can be significant. Some theories suggest environmental factors might contribute to the degradation of the evaporator material in these systems. However, garage storage might mitigate this issue, or perhaps some models received updated materials to prevent this problem. It’s a point worth investigating when considering a Benz 400.
Furthermore, the right rear lift regulator is another component that W140 owners have reported issues with. Indeed, this was the case with my own vehicle, as it had already been replaced. This seems to be a common point of failure in the W140 series.
In terms of driving experience, early W140s sometimes exhibited front suspension vibrations at higher speeds. This issue was addressed in later models. Therefore, when test driving a Benz 400, ensure it provides a smooth ride, particularly at highway speeds, to confirm this issue has either been resolved or was not present in that specific vehicle.
Finally, tire wear is another aspect to consider. Owners of higher-performance W140 models, like the 600 series, found that the original Z-rated tires wore out quickly. There was even legal action regarding this, with owners potentially receiving compensation. A suggested solution to improve tire longevity is to consider using tires with a slightly lower speed rating. While my personal experience with tire mileage on my W140 is still developing, it’s a factor to keep in mind for any Benz 400 owner.
Overall, despite these potential issues common to the early W140 series, including the Benz 400, these cars offer a fantastic driving experience, especially on long journeys. There’s a sense of security and solidity that makes the W140 a wonderful car for families and enthusiasts alike. If you are considering a Benz 400, being informed about these points will help you make a well-rounded assessment.
