LAWYER2

I know this may sound like silly question, but can someone tell me what are the differences between the 430 and 500? The interior looks virtually the same, I know the motor is different, and I've noticed dual exhaust on the 500's as well. Anything else??

my06clk

It depends on the year.. PRefacelift models had more differences..
The facelift models most options were available for both so they are extremely similar..

BTW they both have dual exhaust..

DrJfrmLA

The 500 has 27 more horsepower (in '04 at least)--about 10% more--and has several standard features (headlight washers and park control to name two) that are options on the 430. Owners of the 500 model will contend that there is a world of difference between the two as drivers, but I have driven both (my disclaimer is I own a 430) and I did not notice much difference. Perhaps out at the limits of performance there are, but I'd be hard pressed to make a case that there are substantial differences between the two. There was, however a substantial difference in the MSRP. That has been largely erased in the used market, so it's whatever floats your boat. Both cars do have dual exhausts. The horsepower gain is simply larger displacement. I'm not trying to pick a fight with 500 owners; I'm just reporting my observations.

jfendis430

I agree my brother-in-law use to have 02 s500 designo other than more options I could not tell the difference performance wise

AsianML

Burl walnut is standard on the S500. So are bi-xenons and Nappa leather.

LAWYER2

is there any significant MPG between the motors..........(I'm assuming not)

DrJfrmLA

The 500 paid a gas-guzzler tax and the 430 didn't. I'm averaging 21-22 mpg in mixed driving. I assume the 500 gets less. That's the '04 model year and the 7-speed transmission for both.

LAWYER2

**OT**............but I didnt' want to start a new thread, but can someone tell me juding by this car-fax report if this indicates that the car hasn't been in the dealer for it's proper services since the last date it was shown?? I'm considering buying this car, but don't quite know what to make out of the carfax report

http://www.carfax.com/cfm/ccc_Displa...NG70J61A169629

Skylaw

Judging by the average mileage per year, the car got its routine "A" or "B" service in accordance with the FSS through the end of May, 2004. Its suspension was also serviced a number of times, probably indicating problems with the Airmatic. It also had several electrical problems. Both were common problem areas, especially in the '00 through '02 model years.

Apparently, the car has not been serviced where any records were maintained - that is, probably not at a dealership - since late May 2004. Unless the seller can provide you with paper records (paid receipts indicating the full level of service) indicating that it was serviced in accordance with the MB maintenance booklet (including the kind of oil used at changes), I wouldn't touch the car.

SUNILP

Park Control is an option on the s500 and s55 as well and NOT standard.

DrJfrmLA

Sorry about the wrong info on park control. I don't remember ever seeing a 500 or a 55 without it, so I assumed (incorrectly, I guess) that it was standard. Thanks for the correction.

S500Sport

Also remember the additional torque you get: 339