A What Car headline stated the S-Class Mercedes from this period was ‘the best luxury barge in the world’ and the W220 still doesn’t disappoint two decades on; especially if it includes the wonderful 5 litre V8 and if it has been as loved as this example. The RAC reviewed the model back in the day and they claimed better handling compared to BMW’s 7 series and more refined than the Lexus 430 whilst also taking the top step with performance compared to both and also Porsche’s Boxster.

Country Classic Cars are pleased to offer this Mercedes S500 saloon on behalf of the current owner who is selling as emigrating … never has the phrase ‘so much car for the money’ been more appropriate. Registered April 2001 it has been one family owned, driven by father then daughter, it was specified in Blue Quartz Metallic with grey leather and chestnut trim with plenty of the options ticked on the original order form. A comprehensive service history which includes paperwork from 2018 carried out by a Mercedes specialist:

Aircon overhaul: 04/06/18 @ 28780 miles

A service carried out: 29/10/18 @ 32357 miles

Rear brake pads: 25/07/19 @ 35600 miles

B Service carried out with plugs 19/03/2020 @ 47470 miles

Pads & discs plus fr lower arm 25/09/20 @ 48025 miles

A service carried out 04/05/22 @ 56760 miles

Air con regas 17/08/22 @ 58484 miles

B service carried out 07/05/23 @ 60600

Coolant change/fan motor replaced 28/07/23 @ 61162

A service carried out plus fr discs & pads 07/05/25 @ 68991

The car has currently covered 70411 miles and comes with Mot until May 2026 plus 3 keys and a full dealer pack.

Few cars present this well after 24 years, the closest of inspection located a small graze on the o/s lower corner of the rear bumper and evidence of careless car park users against the passenger front door, both are minor, images are available. The light alloy seven spoke rims are in good order, the odd rim mark and wrapped in decent rubber with Perelli to the rear and Michelins up front … the spare is also Michelin with a complete Mercedes tool kit installed plus a brand new set of factory floor mats in the correct grey in the boot.

Once inside the cabin is virtually silent, double glazing ensures road noise and the outside world offers but a whisper. Ultimate luxury, unmarked leather and every comfort option at the end of a button; far too many to list here but a taster includes.

Electric multi adjustable & heated front & rear individual seating with memory

Parktronic system

Electric roller blind

Power door closing/safety glazing

Tilt & slide sunroof

Comand operating system for Radio/ tape/CD/ Nav/ even millennium TV

Personalised air con / heating

On test we found the V8 is barely audible until awoken with a gentle prod then just a sample of the 306bhp and 340 ft lbs explained why 60mph comes around in an effortless 6.2 seconds. But this Mercedes is not about 150mph top speed, whilst it’s impressive and a winner during most games of Top Trumps, much pleasure can be gained relaxing as the S Class eases you to any destination; it inspires a conscious effort to enjoy and return some pleasure back into driving. Steering is light obviously, but there is plenty of feedback and the lack of body roll hints a firm setup whilst its ability to eliminate potholes and rough surfaces says not. We spent half an hour pressing the vast array of buttons and everything seemed to operate when requested .. apart from the TV which we are sure only communicated with the old analogue system. The radio works very well although the display looks older than 20 years may suggest and a lack of CD’s meant that part of the Comand unit and the multichanger could warrant some investigation.

Most internet reviews will point out the S500 is obviously not a cheap car to run, normal driving should return early 20s to the gallon and the V8 motor will last forever with regular servicing. We are sure this example will be ideal as a wedding car or hotel/ high end courtesy-collection vehicle. The private registration is on retention, and a correct age-related plate will replace it prior to sale.

For additional information or images please message with your email address if required we will forward a file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.