The 1998 Mercedes Benz S500. Just the name evokes a sense of unparalleled luxury and engineering prowess. Recently, I had the distinct pleasure of experiencing this automotive icon firsthand, a model boasting a mere 39,000 miles and appearing as pristine as if it had just rolled off the factory floor. Anticipating a thorough examination, I approached this test drive with a checklist in mind, ready to scrutinize every detail. However, from the moment the engine turned over, any sense of mere evaluation transformed into an appreciation for something truly special.
The initial startup was assertive, the engine catching with a robust purr that quickly settled into an almost unbelievable silence. This wasn’t just quiet; it was a serene hush that initially felt almost disconcerting. The S500’s engine was felt more than heard, a subtle vibration hinting at the immense power lying in wait. Once in motion, the transmission shifted with a smoothness that was, in a word, silky. It was an experience that immediately impressed, showcasing the power, the confident handling, and the solid, bank vault-like construction that the W140 S-Class is renowned for. The often-quoted analogy of “flying a jet” while driving this car resonated deeply. It’s a sensation of effortless glide and commanding presence, a truly unique driving experience.
Acceleration was equally impressive. The 1998 Mercedes Benz S500 responded with rapid, yet refined, power. It handled hard acceleration not with brute force, but with an almost stately grace and dignity. One can easily imagine the surprise of many unsuspecting drivers encountering the effortless speed of this large sedan, piloted perhaps by someone far from the typical “hot-rodder” demographic. The S500 simply delivers performance with an understated authority.
A curious observation during the inspection was the ride height. The test 1998 S500 exhibited a noticeably lower front stance compared to an identical S420 model, with approximately an inch less clearance between the top of the front tire and the fender edge. This subtle difference raises a question: is the 5.0-liter engine of the S500 significantly heavier than the 4.2-liter in the S420? Regardless of the reason, this slightly lowered front profile lends the S500 an even more purposeful and elegant appearance, sitting lower to the ground than even my own 260E.
In conclusion, this experience solidified a long-held belief: the W140 S-Class, and particularly models like the 1997-1999 S Class, represent a pinnacle for Mercedes-Benz. If ancient Egypt has the Great Pyramid, then Mercedes-Benz has the 1998 Mercedes Benz S500. It stands as an absolute testament to their engineering expertise, a vehicle that embodies luxury, performance, and timeless design in a way that few cars ever have. It’s a car that inspires not just admiration, but genuine love for the art of automotive engineering.
