W140 S320 or W126 300SE

[steveirl]

Given that here in Ireland your running costs are more or less the same, would you not consider a V8 W140, a 420 or 500 over the 320?
The annual road tax is the same €1800 for all models, and fuel consumption is not that much worse on the V8 as it is under less pressure. ? I would imagine engine wise at least, most V8's are in better fettle that 320's out there! Worth a thought maybe.

 

[robparker]

I would happily jump in either a 300 of 140 guise or 126 guise and drive anywhere. Rot aside, the 126 is more likely to have little problems due to age, like a inoperatble seat switch, wiper motor seazing due to lack of use etc, but cheap to fix. The 140 parts are generally more expensive, but, 140s are super reliable, a headgasket leaking the only real potential problem on that engine, but if its good now then it probably will be for a long time.
Having owned both models more than once, I think in my current mood i'd pick the 140, but in a few weeks it would probably change to the 126!

 

[mr_w140]

I had a 126 300SE before my current 140 S320 LWB.
I don't think you can compare these in the same league, mainly because the 140 is so much more bigger, not just to look at but also to drive it.

I admit that the 126 is a classy car but given the choice of one, I would go for the 140 limo due to the size and the comfort factor.

All the best!