1998 MERCEDES-BENZ (W140) S320L

This Mercedes-Benz S320L is a highly original millennium-era limousine, presented in very good order and with low mileage. Under the bonnet is a 3.2-litre straight-six producing around 228bhp, coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. The odometer shows 58,150 miles.

First registered on 23 April 1998, there are three previous keepers on the log book, though the vendor understands that the car has only had two owners. The first cherished this car for the first 20 years of its life, keeping it properly maintained with Mercedes-Benz main agents, and garaging the car in the dry whenever not in use. It was equally well-cared for with the second owner, who kept it for 18 months, before being acquired by the current vendor earlier this year.

Today, its bodywork presents in excellent condition, with no evidence of any prior damage. The Brilliant Silver metallic paint is also in very good order. Its front bumper has just received some remedial paintwork on the nearside lower section, but the vendor is not aware of any other panels that have been repainted. A thorough review of the detailed photo gallery is recommended, not only to spot the very few minor blemishes present around the body, but moreover to fully appreciate just how well-presented this particular example is. There is no kerbing damage to the 16-inch alloys, but the paint finish is blistered in places, so they would benefit from refurbishment in due course to bring them up to the same high standard as the bodywork.

Inside, the cabin is upholstered in dark blue leather and blue carpeting, accented by burr walnut root inlays. All of the trim is in superb order, with signs of use on the driver’s seat, but minimal wear and no discoloration. The passenger seats are all in exceptional condition, further evidencing the care with which this car has been maintained. Factory-fitted equipment includes electrically adjustable and heated front seats with memory settings for driver and passenger, dual-zone climate control, an electric sliding sunroof, cruise control, and power-folding door mirrors. There are no known electrical faults and no warning lights displayed.

The most recent scheduled maintenance was in August 2019 at 57,452 miles, carried out by Mercedes-Benz specialist Nigel Scrace Limited (Capel Car Services). This was a 36,000-mile service, including renewal of the engine oil and filter, spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, pollen filter, and the gearbox oil and filter. A summary of the service history is included below.

The last MOT test was carried out on 29 July 2019 at 57,452 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with advisories regarding slight fluctuation in the offside rear brake, and some corrosion to the ferrules on the front brake hoses. The current certificate is valid until 28 January 2021 due to the six-month extension. The wheels are fitted with matching Continental PremiumContact tyres on all four corners, which are in good order with 5mm-6mm of tread.

Accompanying the car is the black leather wallet housing the original books, including the stamped maintenance record and owner’s manual. Sales brochures, the original bill of sale, stereo user guide, service cards, and a very good history file of paperwork are also present - as well as two flip keys and immobiliser fobs.

This Mercedes-Benz S320L is a great example of what is often considered the last ‘over-engineered’ model from the marque’s golden era of legendary build quality. It is increasingly hard to find examples of the W140 that remain so original, let alone present so well. As such, this would be a smart addition to a collection of modern classics, and is ready to enjoy sparingly on fine weather days to preserve its impressive condition.

Summary of service history:

• 25/01/2000 - 10,086 miles
• 15/01/2002 - 15,816 miles
• 22/04/2003 - 22,101 miles
• 20/04/2004 - 25,237 miles
• 12/04/2005 - 28,324 miles
• 23/03/2006 - 29,286 miles
• 18/04/2007 - 30,564 miles
• 28/02/2008 - 31,564 miles
• 31/03/2009 - 33,250 miles
• 26/03/2010 - 34,592 miles
• 05/04/2011 - 36,662 miles
• 23/03/2012 - 39,201 miles
• 11/04/2013 - 42,307 miles
• 01/04/2014 - 44,713 miles
• 09/04/2015 - 46,983 miles
• 27/03/2017 - Mileage TBC
• 26/04/2018 - Mileage TBC
• 17/08/2019 - 57,452 miles

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.