..:: 1993-96 vs. 1997-99 ::..
#1
Senior Member
Thread Starter
..:: 1993-96 vs. 1997-99 ::..
What are the pros and cons of the 1st vs. 2nd generation 140 coupe? I am comparing a 1994 S500 and a 1997 CL500 and engine reliability is a deciding factor.
Also, what performance upgrades are available?
Also, what performance upgrades are available?
#5
MBWorld Fanatic!
1st generation had the dreaded wiring harness that falls apart to 95 cars and some 96s.(96 to 99 better transmissions,good wiring in engine,except for 5. liters.Seems on the V8s vibration messes with crank sensor wire,it breaks.Interior cheaper in newer cars,leather thin and tears.Plastic breaks up.
#6
Super Member
#7
Super Member
Performance upgrades are all but non-existent. Nothing cheap either. Supercharger kits and the occasional set of AMG cams. If you don't like it out of the box, buy a different car. W140's are some of the most expensive cars on the planet to modify.
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#9
I just acquired a 1995 s500 coupe, 79,000 miles:
1. Is it a given that I will have wiring harness problems?
2. I need a new ac blower regulator. Should I install a $330 OEM regulator or is a $50 ebay ok
3. Car comes very close to overheating with ac on in traffic. Axillary fans will click on momentarily and click off. Any suggestions?
4. Are the ebay cd repair manuals worth it?
Thank in advance
1. Is it a given that I will have wiring harness problems?
2. I need a new ac blower regulator. Should I install a $330 OEM regulator or is a $50 ebay ok
3. Car comes very close to overheating with ac on in traffic. Axillary fans will click on momentarily and click off. Any suggestions?
4. Are the ebay cd repair manuals worth it?
Thank in advance
#10
Super Member
It's not a given that you will have wiring failure. I had a 140k mile 1992 500sel that did not suffer from the wiring curse. On the other hand, I've had the harnesses fail in three of my (past and current) V12s. With that said... If it's overheating, then yes you most likely need to start replacing the wiring. Rule out that it's not just cooling system related before dumping money into the harnesses.
#11
Thanks MB Fahrer. It's encouraging that it's not a given but sounds like the probabilities are stacked the other way.
It doesn't quite get to the overheat stage but scary enough close that I turn off the ac. My plan is to change the ac regulator and then get help tracking down the axillary fan issue.
Appreciate your response. I'm getting very fond of this car very fast but trying to keep a level head.
It doesn't quite get to the overheat stage but scary enough close that I turn off the ac. My plan is to change the ac regulator and then get help tracking down the axillary fan issue.
Appreciate your response. I'm getting very fond of this car very fast but trying to keep a level head.