Buy 1999 S-Class - in at the deep end?

[redrocket]

Guys,
Your advice pdq please. I have an option to get a 1999 S Class 430 (current shape). Lots of toys, 75k miles. FMBSH. Immaculate (I am told), all original, directors car, 18" wheels luvly jubly all for £12k. Is this going to be "the best car in the world" or the beginning of massive bills. I imagine MB dealers are going to charge ££££ for any job however minor. Can anyone recommend an independent in the midlands, or shall I just take it to the local garage for oil changes and not bother will all the exotic servicing.
Fuel consumption about 25mpg? - no short journeys
Is the depreciation finally stopped on this car or are there further depths to plummet - like in 2 years it will be worth £4k.
What to look out for?
Do I buy it?

 

[Brett]

Sounds a reasonable price. Fuel consumption is likely to be lower than 25mpg. I ran a 320 CDI last year and got 35mpg, and then a 320L CDI which got around 31mpg. The E320 I'm currently running gets around 24mpg on average.

In terms of the car itself, £12k is not a lot for a very special car. Parts are reasonably expensive though - a set of disks and brake pads cost me in excess of £450 (fitted) after 30k miles (a heavy car, so it does go though them).

It all depends on your wallet. For £12k you are getting a magnificent car and if it costs you £1.5k a year in servicing and routine maintenance, it will be worth it (IMHO). I miss mine. The estate is practical and a great car, but ultimately it is not an S.

 

[Brett]

Oh yeah, the bit I missed. All Mercs make you feel special. The W220 makes you feel like you've "made it". Again, IMHO.