The Mercedes W221 S-Class is one of the used luxury market’s great temptations. A car that once represented the top of the Mercedes-Benz range can now cost less than an ordinary new compact car. But depreciation only changed the purchase price. The W221 depreciated. Its engineering didn’t. That distinction determines whether an old S-Class becomes … Read more
Ask most drivers whether German or Japanese cars are more reliable, and Japan will probably win the reputation contest. Historically, that reputation is well earned: Toyota, Lexus, and Honda have accumulated strong reliability records across generations, while German premium cars became associated with sophisticated engineering that could become expensive with age. But the modern picture … Read more
German cars have a reputation for expensive maintenance, while Japanese cars are associated with almost the opposite. There is evidence behind that difference: Consumer Reports‘ long-term cost analysis places several European luxury brands—including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche—among the more expensive manufacturers as vehicles age. RepairPal illustrates the gap more simply, estimating roughly $968 in … Read more
Buying a reliable used Mercedes SUV requires a slightly different mindset from buying a Toyota or Honda. The objective isn’t necessarily finding the Mercedes that can survive the longest with the least attention. Mercedes builds luxury vehicles, and much of what makes them desirable—advanced suspension, powerful engines, sophisticated electronics and extensive comfort equipment—also creates additional … Read more