1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　No cosmetic improvements to the S-Class this year; everything new is under the skin. ESP is standard on the S600 and optional on V8 models. ESP is a stability control system designed to help the driver keep the S-Class under control at all times. V8 and V12 versions get a new five-speed automatic, and all models get a standard power glass sunroof and smog-sensing climate control system. The S350 Turbodiesel is history.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S420 4dr Sedan and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$228/mo  for S-Class S420

　　S-Class S420

　　S420 4dr Sedan (Most Popular) - N/A MSRPS600 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPS600 2dr Coupe - N/A MSRPS500 2dr Coupe - N/A MSRPS500 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPS320 LWB 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPS320 SWB 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRP

　　vs

　　$197/mo

　　Avg. Large Car

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Big Mercedes sedans have always been the ultimate automobiles. They scream success, are engineered to be driven hard, and keep the general public at bay. The S-Class projects confidence, prestige, and a certain amount of cold indifference.

　　Starting at just under $70,000 for the surprisingly speedy S320 six-cylinder sedan, and topping out at double that price for a S600 twelve-cylinder behemoth, the S-Class doesn't seem much like a mega-buck automobile on the inside. The switchgear feels relatively chintzy, the flimsy dash panel above the central vents is totally unacceptable in a car of this caliber, and the cheesy terry cloth fabric covering the lower dash feels and looks low rent.

　　Ergonomics are slightly marred by a plethora of confusing pictographs. Otherwise, the dash layout is perfect, as is the seating position. Step out and close the door; the thunk as it shuts exudes quality craftsmanship. The exterior styling is slab-sided and massive, making the car look fat. Aside from the traditional grille, the S-Class is devoid of exterior character, more so than the pedestrian Lexus LS400, and in startling contrast to the BMW 7-Series.

　　For 1996, Mercedes has developed an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for the S-Class, and other Mercedes models, that helps the driver retain control of the big Benz at all times while driving in adverse conditions. ESP is standard on the V12 models and optional on V8 models. A new electronic five-speed transmission is installed on V12 and V8 models, and all S-Class sedans get a power glass sunroof standard. Gone is the S350 Turbodiesel.

　　Prices are way out of line, but evidently some people feel that the S-Class is worth it. Mercedes sold about 15,000 of these cars in 1994. We think some of those folks would have been happier with the BMW 7-Series or the Lexus LS400. We would.

　　

1996 S-Class Highlights

Type: SedanCoupeSedan

　　Trim: S420S600S320 LWBS500S320 SWBS420

　　

Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	16 MPG
Cost to Drive	$228/month
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive