kelly1990

Hi there, I am looking for some advice on a pending purchase of two used w140s: a 1993 500sel or 1995 s500. What are the advantages or disadvantages of each assuming the pricing is almost identical? I seem to understand 500sel may have 4 speed trans and s500 five speed? Also, is wintershift important and on both? Do each have wiring harness issues to review? thanks, I look forward to your expertise

oldsinner111

Hello 92 thru 95 have wiring issues.As far as smog devices go I would say the 5oosel to be faster.each year they de tune engines to meet stricter laws.

kelly1990

Thanks!! any other differences that are important in amenities, transmissions, etc. to consider?

oldsinner111

the trans and amenities I don't know
but don't fall for the lifetime ATF in the trans.But a dipstick and change fluid every 30,000 miles

deanyel

Same car exactly with a name change in 1994. Same engine, same 4 speed transmission, same flawed original engine wiring harness, literally same everything but the badge on the trunk.

z168

Theyre mostly aesthetics:
1. Bumper and door cladding are different
2. Tail lamps are different
3. Stereo headunit is different
4. Zebrano wood on the 93 and burlwood on the 95

tbilisi79

try to go for a 96-up model.
You get 5-speed tranny, which makes world of difference.
Updated climate control.