The W140 S Class is regarded as “The King of the S Class”, and this fabulous S500 SWB is testament to that! Finished in Brilliant Silver with Mushroom Leather interior and generous optional specification, the car presents in superb order throughout.

Supplied new by Portman Manchester and serviced by Mercedes Benz up until around the 100,000-mile mark and subsequently having been serviced by independent specialists. This era of M119 V8 is susceptible to both the dreaded wiring loom degradation as well as rough running due to worn distributor caps, rotor arms and HT Leads. The wiring loom has been thoroughly checked and has NO ISSUES (I am told by my mechanic it must have been replaced as it is showing no break down), the caps, rotor arms and leads were replaced roughly 6000 miles ago and the car is in fine order mechanically. It does not run rich, burn oil or get hot. It has superb oil pressure and has just had a thorough service at 130,500 miles including coolant flush and transmission fluid, as well as new brake pads all round and four Continental tyres. 

Still wearing it’s Drayton Mercedes dealer number plates, the bodywork is in very good condition. All four wheel-arches are tidy and as new, and there is no rust on any of the body panels. The diamond cut 8-hole alloy wheels retain their original finish and are all in good condition. Inside is a real treat, the driver’s seat is in excellent condition with no bolster wear or sagging to the leather. It has clearly been used as a gentleman’s express as the rear seats have pretty much no signs of wear and the suede-cloth headlining in in perfect condition; as is the leather on the steering wheel. The wood still has a nice deep shine with no cracks and the Mercedes Benz embossed door kick plates are in good condition. 

With specification including: Power driver and passenger seats with orthopaedic support, heated front seats, power adjustable steering wheel, power folding door mirrors, cruise control, sunroof, 2 zone climate control with rest function (air con is ice cold), illuminated front and rear vanity mirrors, Mercedes Benz ribbed carpet mats, extending parking poles, soft close doors and double-glazed windows. 

There are few driving experiences quite like a good W140, and this is one. The 5.0 V8 M119 engine is strong and runs perfectly and makes a pleasingly subtle burble, the 4 speed transmission shifts nicely and is much more long lasting than the 5 speed fitted to later models and the ride and handling are superb. It makes long journeys a pleasure. 

To summarise, this superb early S500 is now a rare car. It has been used carefully and maintained to a high standard, unlike most examples, and still feels fresh throughout. It has 12 months MOT until July 2019, and as I say, has just been fully serviced. Perfect for the enthusiast looking for an excellent W140, or for someone to use as a comfortable and enjoyable modern classic daily vehicle. One thing is certain; however its new owner uses it, I’m sure they will be delighted.