1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review
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Used S-Class for sale
Appraise This CarMercedes-Benz S-Class model years
Mercedes-Benz S-Class types
- Sedan
- Coupe
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds 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 S320 LWB 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 $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$241/mo for S-Class S320 LWB
S-Class S320 LWB
vs
$219/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.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
5 star(75%)
4 star(19%)
3 star(6%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
36 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
Built Without Regard To Expense
John Throbs, 01/17/2010
1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 4dr Sedan
Love the car. It's like driving a fast, well handling, exceedingly comfortable tank. Mine has not had any problems, but I bought it with 50K miles on it and it had a complete service log showing that all maintenance had been done. These cars have two flaws: The a/c evaporator can go out, and it is a $4K, dash out job to replace it, and the engine wiring harness can deteriorate, which … is a $1,500 job to replace. Make sure the car you're buying has had these two repairs done to it and you will be fine.
4.88 out of 5 stars
95 S420 my dream come true
S420 ON 20$, 05/06/2010
1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S420 4dr Sedan
I just bought a 95 s420 for real cheap. I was gonna buy a 96 e320 but saw & test drove it & fell in love with it ! i brought it home & changed tranny fluids & added 2 qt of LUCAS OIL it made such a difference! then i got rid of the stock intake system & replaced it with a cold air intake filter directly on the intake throttle feel hear that & LET THAT engine BREATH
4.38 out of 5 stars
S600
jonny600, 03/08/2008
1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S600 2dr Coupe
The 95 S600 simply put is one of the most amazing cars you will ever experience. You don't just drive this car. Interior-two toned leather seats, double stitched leather dash board,walnut throughout, brushed seude headliner, not enough words to explain the interior-9 speaker stereo amazing! Double pained windows-no road can be heard with windows up. The fit and finish of the cabin … unsurpassed by any car make I know of. V12 400hp engine unlimited performance car offers electronic driving modes, in every way this car boarders on supercar status! drawbacks-8-mp, terribly expensive to repair a simple brake job. Most engine parts must be bought in pairs(the engine are two 6cyl engines)
4.88 out of 5 stars
S420
YRChachad, 01/25/2003
1995 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S420 4dr Sedan
One of the grandest cars put on the
road. Side-by-side, this car is
better made than the equivalent Lexus
LS400, or BMW 740iL, there is just no
question.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the S-Class since its last redesign.
1996 S-Class Highlights
Sedan
S320 LWB
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $241/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.6 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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