Other model Benzes?

[gregdeklerk]

What is the milage and the year model? When did they change from the 500SE to S500 designation? How pleased is your wife about the expenses on the car?

[s class]

As released in 1991, the W140 lineup was :
300SE, 300SEL (3.2L 6)
400SE, 400SEL (4.2L M119 V8)
500SE, 500SEL (5.0L M119 V8)
600SE, 600SEL (6.0L M120 V12)

My car is a 1992, originally sold as a 500SEL and imported specially into South Africa, because the W140 only officially arrived in South Africa in 1993, by which time the model designations had been revised to S320, S420, S500, S600.  There wase then no external badging to distinguish SWB and LWB.  In South Africa, only S320 SWB and S500 SWB were generally available, though some S420 SWB and S600 SWB are around.  My car is the only LWB W140 I'm aware of in South Africa, and that played a major role in my decision to buy it.  It also has full black leather (my first choice) in excellent condion, and a fairly complete list of the optional extras. 

In 1994/5 the model range was facelifted.  Externally, the cars were painted all one colour (pre face-lift was two-tone), they got revised side panels and bumpers with extra fluting, revised sound system and climate control, different leather pattern.  BUT they als got catalytic converters and a lower state of engine tune, though somewhat conmpensated for by the change from 4spd to 5spd auto tranny.  Mine is the high performance non-cat version 

My car now has 280 000km, which in itself shouldn't be a problem, but the previous (second) owner neglected the car, bordering onto abuse.  I'm slowly saving it.....

Ryan

[116.025]

Looking at OBH's fleet reminds me how much I wish my W116 was a dark color instead of that nasty white (no offense to others with white W116's, I just can't stand white cars in general).

You must live in a cool climate..
White cars are superb in hot weather...

North Carolina, my state of Residence in the US, sees all types of weather, from the snow yesterday to over 100F in the summer.  I have yet to be able to appreciate the "coolness" of white cars in hot weather.  Having driven dark and light Benzes here with broken A/Cs, I remain unconvinced dark cars make a big difference, but to each his own. 

[500eguy]

I have spent quite some time in a 1999 S420 and loved it! i love the look of it, i love the overall feel of the car! it is just right. i would love a s600 because of the suede headliner, full leather interior and v-12 smoothness. Although i would love a s500, or any W140. Preferably a long wheel base.