1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Full Review
Updated: 12/17/09
1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
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1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class ▼
- Price Range: $2,300 - $11,700
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (except S320)
- Side airbags (late models)
- Passenger and cargo room
- Ride
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Price
Vehicle Highlights
Mercedes-Benz's top series switched from its decade-old platform to a new design for 1992: still rear-wheel drive but longer in wheelbase, slightly taller, and a lot heavier. Sedans came in two basic sizes: SE with a 119.7-inch wheelbase, and SEL measuring 123.7 inches. A new 228-horsepower, 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine went into the 300SE; the 400SE got a 282-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8; the 500SEL carried a 322-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8; and the new 600SEL held a 402-horsepower, 6.0-liter V12. All engines were dual-overhead-cam design with four valves per cylinder. A 4-speed automatic transmission was used, except for the 300SE, which got a new 5-speed automatic. Also available: a 300SD with a 3.5-liter turbodiesel engine. Speed-sensitive power steering was installed. Double-pane side windows had one-touch up/down power. Standard on the SEL models (optional on SE) were such items as traction control, an activated-charcoal ventilation system, power rear seat, heated front seats, and rear self leveling. An automatic-adjusting suspension went into the 600SEL, along with separate rear air conditioning, an electric rear-window sunshade, CD changer, and cellular phone. Rivals included the BMW 7-Series, Jaguar XJ sedan, and Lexus LS 400.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mercedes-Benz S420 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 9 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 63 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Year to Year Changes
1993 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
A coupe joined the original sedans, riding a shorter platform with a 115.9-inch wheelbase. The 400SE turned into the 400SEL, moving to the longer span. Horsepower ratings dropped slightly.
1994 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
This year's models were renamed, clearly reflecting engine size. S320 and S350D sedans rode a 119.7-inch wheelbase; S420, S500, and S600 sedans a 123.6-inch span. Coupes, on the shortest (115.9-inch) wheelbase came in S500 and S600 form. Fuel economy improved a bit this year.
1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
Fresh styling went on this season's coupes and sedans. Changes included new front and rear bumpers and lights, the grille, trunklid, and lower body panels. An Electronic Traction System was standard on the S320 and S350. The S320 grew in size, to the 123.6-inch wheelbase.
1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
A new Electronic Stability Program became standard on V12 models, optional on V8s. The system applied brakes to individual wheels as needed, to help maintain traction. A new 5-speed automatic transmission went into V8 and V12 models. The S350 turbodiesel was dropped, leaving only gasoline engines in S-Class automobiles.
1997 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
Door-mounted side airbags went into the '97 models. The S320 got the same 5-speed automatic transmission introduced a year earlier in the V8/V12 vehicles. A new occupant detection sensor could deactivate the front passenger airbag. New xenon headlamps were standard on the S500 and S600, optional on others. A new Parktronic parking-assistance system was standard on coupes and optional on sedans.
1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
As before, 6-cylinder S320 models came in regular- or longer-wheelbase form. The V8 S420 and S500 used the longer chassis, as did the S600 with its V12 engine. All models had Mercedes' "Brake Assist" system, which automatically applied full braking force in panic stops, responding to rapid brake-pedal movement. The standard "BabySmart" feature automatically deactivated front and side airbags when a special child seat was installed. Mercedes' Electronic Stability Program was standard in the S600, and optional elsewhere. S500 and S600 coupes were rebadged as CL500 and CL600, to avoid confusion with S500 and S600 sedans.
1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
For its final outing in this form, nothing changed for Mercedes' largest and most-costly series. A smaller and lighter S-Class was expected as an early 2000 model. To help mark the finale, Mercedes offered 600 copies of a Grand Edition S500 with special Obsidian black paint, black-and-parchment interior, and low-profile tires on 18-inch wheels.
Our road test for the 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Acceleration runs from tepid on S320s to forceful on 600s, which do 0-60 mph in a claimed 6.3 seconds. An early 400SE reached 60 mph in an also-swift 7.7 seconds. Fuel economy also varies greatly, but it's not good in any case. The S320s have too little power for their weight, while other models simply have big, thirsty engines. Make no mistake: these are some of the largest, heaviest cars around. Yet, handling is surprisingly agile, all things considered, with steering, stopping, and cornering poise that inspire confidence. In fact, handling and roadholding would do justice to sports sedans half their weight. Suspensions stay in touch with the road via a smooth ride that, while almost floaty over sharp dips, maintains composure through just about any pavement conditions. Brakes, steering, driving position, instruments, visibility--all inspire confidence, making for satisfying long-distance operation. Helped by double-pane side windows, these are also some of the quietest cars around. S-Class sedans boast limousinelike passenger and cargo space, in keeping with their expansive exterior size--even more so with the extended-wheelbase. Sedan access is worthy of members of the diplomatic corps. All these cars comfortably accommodate any size driver, before a typical Mercedes dashboard, with convenient if not always self-evident controls. Visibility is uniformly good.
Value for the Money
Impressive and big, these top-line sedans were built with evident "cost-no-object" attitude. Monumentally solid body structures make them something special. These are also some of the costliest cars around, secondhand as well as when they were new. So, it's just as well that they have tank-solid structures and superb detail finish. This is, after all, what you expect for such lofty prices. S-Class sedans are among the world's finest automobiles, though plenty of alternatives cost thousands less yet don't lack for luxury and performance. More than most cars, if you're concerned about price, you can't afford one of these Mercedes-Benzes. Simply put, this particular blend of Mercedes-Benz prestige and polish is awfully hard to match.
Impressive and big, these top-line sedans were built with evident "cost-no-object" attitude. Monumentally solid body structures make them something special. These are also some of the costliest cars around, secondhand as well as when they were new. So, it's just as well that they have tank-solid structures and superb detail finish. This is, after all, what you expect for such lofty prices. S-Class sedans are among the world's finest automobiles, though plenty of alternatives cost thousands less yet don't lack for luxury and performance. More than most cars, if you're concerned about price, you can't afford one of these Mercedes-Benzes. Simply put, this particular blend of Mercedes-Benz prestige and polish is awfully hard to match.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mercedes-Benz S420 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 9 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 8 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 63 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Dashboard lights:
The Parktronic system may display and sound an alert despite the vehicle not moving due to vibrations picked up by the sensors. Installing dampers will correct the problem. (1997-2002)
Dashboard lights:
The check-engine light glows because of a problem with the EGR valve on cars with the 2.8-liter and 3.2-liter engines.
Electrical problem:
The engine will not crank (starter will not run) if the cigarette-lighter fuse blows. (1994-95)
Steering problems:
Steering-wheel vibrations are corrected by installing hydraulic bushings in the rear lower control arms. (1992)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $710 |
| Alternator | $630 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,090 |
| Brakes | $695 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $610 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,590 |
| Exhaust System | $855 |
| Radiator | $670 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,340 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $550 |
Our price chart for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1999 | |||
| S320 | $7,000-8,200 | $6,200-7,300 | $3,300-3,900 |
| S420 | $7,500-8,500 | $6,800-7,700 | $3,800-4,300 |
| S500 | $8,200-9,500 | $7,400-8,600 | $4,200-4,800 |
| S600 | $11,500-13,000 | $10,400-11,700 | $6,300-7,200 |
| 1998 | |||
| S320 | $6,200-7,400 | $5,400-6,400 | $2,700-3,200 |
| S420 | $6,700-7,700 | $5,900-6,800 | $3,100-3,500 |
| S500 | $7,300-8,500 | $6,600-7,700 | $3,600-4,200 |
| S600 | $10,000-11,500 | $9,000-10,400 | $5,200-6,000 |
| 1997 | |||
| S320 | $5,500-6,600 | $4,700-5,700 | $2,300-2,700 |
| S420 | $6,000-7,000 | $5,200-6,100 | $2,500-2,900 |
| S500 | $6,600-7,800 | $5,800-6,900 | $3,000-3,600 |
| S600 | $9,000-10,500 | $8,100-9,500 | $4,700-5,500 |
| 1996 | |||
| S320/350 | $4,800-6,000 | $4,000-5,000 | $1,800-2,300 |
| S420 | $5,200-6,100 | $4,400-5,200 | $2,100-2,400 |
| S500 | $5,800-7,000 | $5,000-6,100 | $2,400-2,900 |
| S600 | $8,200-9,500 | $7,400-8,600 | $3,400-3,900 |
| 1995 | |||
| S320/350 | $4,200-5,800 | $3,400-4,800 | $1,400-2,000 |
| S420 | $4,500-5,300 | $3,700-4,400 | $1,600-1,900 |
| S500 | $5,100-6,100 | $4,300-5,200 | $2,000-2,400 |
| S600 | $7,500-8,600 | $6,800-7,700 | $3,800-4,300 |
| 1994 | |||
| S320/350 | $3,700-5,400 | $3,000-4,400 | $1,100-1,600 |
| S420 | $4,000-4,800 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| S500 | $4,500-5,600 | $3,700-4,600 | $1,600-2,000 |
| S600 | $6,800-7,800 | $6,100-6,900 | $3,200-3,700 |
| 1993 | |||
| 300SD/SE | $3,300-4,700 | $2,600-3,700 | $800-1,200 |
| 400SEL | $3,600-4,300 | $2,900-3,400 | $1,000-1,200 |
| 500SEL/SEC | $4,100-4,900 | $3,400-4,000 | $1,400-1,600 |
| 600SEL/SEC | $6,300-7,300 | $5,500-6,400 | $2,800-3,200 |
| 1992 | |||
| 300SD/SE | $3,000-4,200 | $2,300-3,200 | $700-1,000 |
| 400SE | $3,300-4,000 | $2,600-3,200 | $800-1,000 |
| 500SEL | $3,900-4,600 | $3,200-3,800 | $1,200-1,400 |
| 600SEL/SEC | $5,900-6,800 | $5,100-5,900 | $2,500-2,900 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | LWB 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 115.9 | 123.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 199.4 | 205.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 75.3 | 74.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.9 | 58.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4700 | 4700 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.2 | 15.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 26.4 | 26.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 36.5 | 38.0 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.7 | 41.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 | 38.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 31.5 | 39.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Throughout most of its long run, model numbers reflected engine size. Four gasoline engines were used through the years: an inline 6-cylinder, V8s in two sizes, and a 6.0-liter V12. Until 1996, a turbodiesel inline six also was available. Early models had 4-speed automatic transmissions, but the S320 was first to get a 5-speed unit.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I6 | 3.2 / 195 | 228 | 229-232 | 5-speed automatic: 17/23 | 5-speed automatic: 18.2 |
| dohc V8 | 4.2 / 256 | 275-282 | 295-302 | 4-speed automatic: 15/20 5-speed automatic: 15/22 |
4-speed automatic: -- 5-speed automatic: 16.3 |
| dohc V8 | 5.0 / 303 | 315-322 | 345-354 | 4-speed automatic: 15/19 5-speed automatic: 15/21 |
4-speed automatic: 15.2 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V12 | 6.0 / 365 | 389-402 | 420-428 | 4-speed automatic: 13/16 5-speed automatic: 13/19 |
4-speed automatic: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1992-1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1996:
Drive-belt pulley on some cars can break.
1997:
Corrosion of electrical-ignition filament of gas-generator module can occur if vehicle is operated in areas of high humidity; can result in driver's airbag deploying unintentionally.
1999:
Window airbag may not fully deploy in side-impact collision.
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