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 12-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 1998, Mercedes has limited changes to whatever could be pulled out of the parts bin. That means BabySmart airbag technology and Brake Assist. Brake Assist is designed to give drivers maximum braking power in a panic situation by detecting a panic application of the brake pedal and increasing braking power to its highest limit. We've not tried this new system yet, but we are somewhat hesitant of a car that thinks it knows more about our impending doom than we do. The BabySmart airbag system works in conjunction with a special Mercedes car seat, allowing moms and dads the option of putting little Suzie in the front passenger's seat without having to worry about the front airbag deploying in her face.

The S-Class costs more than just about anything printed in this book, and although the car is nice, we don't think it is quite that nice. If you've got this much money to spend, take a look at the new Jaguars or the BMW 7-Series; they might just make you happier.

1998 Highlights

The uber-Mercedes are not changed much in anticipation of the cars' imminent replacement. BrakeAssist and BabySmart appear in the lineup, but the S320s don't receive the V6 engine that now powers the E320, instead, continuing with the inline six.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.813 reviews

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5(92%)

4(0%)

3(0%)

2(8%)

1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

S Class Quality

98 S420 and S500,03/28/2010

The 98 and 99 S420 and S500 in my opinion where the best years for the S Class. The new shape in 2000 is very nice but not the same presidence of luxury. Every vehicle has issues no matter what, however this one gave me a few since 2002 I paid exactly $6500 to do repairs. Other than that these are and where the best on Gas, Performance, Style, Luxury, Strength, and just about everything

1998 S320 LWB (6) Year Owner

Mark S,10/10/2009

The LWB S320 is my second Mercedes (replacing a 300E) and I hate to even consider trading it off. It is smooth, quiet although not a rocket off the line, it will hit highway speeds of 125 plus without issue. I hit and totaled a U-Haul truck that ran a red light several years ago and the Mercedes kept me safe and sound. The car was repaired and continues to be a great daily driver. I

Best car in the world.

Igor Titar,08/29/2002

The S-Class is the most beautiful car I've seen & drove. It feels like your driving a ship because its so smooth on the road, it is the creamiest & most comfortable ride & when you need to get somewhere quick it feels like driving a private jet. When I turn on the music it feels like Im at a consert. & when the ESP(traction control) system is on, it is almost impossible

a trusted friend

peter,11/12/2009

I bought this car new in 1997 and had a few repairs over the years including transmission and a few other costly repairs took out insurance a few years ago and helped w repair costs. In short Mercedes can make a more durable car but w all that this I hesitate to trade in the car. It is so reliable and comfortable and fast. I have brought up 4 kids in the car and it still looks like a

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Features & Specs

MPG

13 city / 20 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

315 hp @ 5600 rpm

MPG

15 city / 22 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

228 hp @ 5600 rpm

MPG

15 city / 22 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

228 hp @ 5600 rpm

MPG

11 city / 17 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed automatic

Gas

389 hp @ 5200 rpm

See all Used 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan features & specs

Safety

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
0

More about the 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Used 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan Overview

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Should I lease or buy a 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials
Check out Mercedes-Benz S-Class lease specials

Used 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan

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