S-Class (W221) 2007-2013: S 320 CDI, S 350, S 450, S 500, S 550, S 420 CDI, S 600

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Old Feb 7, 2025 | 01:47 PM
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BMW 335i and w211 E500.
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Hello forum. So, I have owned E-Class, and currently daily drive a low mileage used CLS, and will be keeping it. I am strongly considering also purchasing a used S Class. Let's say 2009-2012. The vehicle will not be financed. From 2009- 2012 what year or years are best reliability wise? Thanks.
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Old Feb 7, 2025 | 02:46 PM
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2023 EQS580 SUV, 2010 S550 4M,2004 S430 4Matic(traded), 2024 GLE350 (traded), 2020 GLS450(traded)
I just got a 2010 S550 4Matic with 39k miles about 6 months ago. 2010-2011 are the facelift models with m273 (non-turbo). 2012 with m278 may have experienced some engine issues. That's all I know and that's why I bought 2010 with low miles. Good luck on your hunting the last non-turbo V8.

Last edited by phillip04S430; Feb 7, 2025 at 03:34 PM. Reason: typos
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Old Feb 7, 2025 | 02:54 PM
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BMW 335i and w211 E500.
Originally Posted by phillip04S430
I just got a 2010 S550 4Matic with 39k miles about 6 months ago. 2010-2011 are the facelift models with m273 (non-turbo). 2012 with m278 may have experienced some engine issues. That's all I know and that's why I bought 2010 with a low miles. Good luck on your hunting the last non-turbo V8.
Yes, that natural 5.5 liter is the same engine in my current CLS550. I am convinced that I want to stay with that engine in an S platform. You have me sold, I'll stick to 09's to 11's w the lowest mileage and decent service history.
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Old Feb 8, 2025 | 12:10 AM
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2014 S63 2010 ML350 Bluetec 2009 SL550
Good call - the M273 is a gem.
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Old Feb 8, 2025 | 02:06 AM
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W212 FL
I would pick up the M278 bi turbo versions but M273s have better reputation I have to say that .
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Old Feb 8, 2025 | 08:09 AM
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222 S-65
OP wait a year or two and purchase a much depreciated 222 car. They are soooo much better than the 221. Don’t have to replace engine mounts annually... suspension arms in front annually.... get one with Carbon Ceramic brakes and you are not having to replace pads or ever have warped rotors. Magic Body Control and the seven speed box behind the V-12 sealed the deal for me. Still love it 50,000 miles later.
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Old Feb 10, 2025 | 08:52 AM
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No turbos vs two turbos? Are you crazy?
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Old Feb 10, 2025 | 10:17 AM
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S500
turbos are just a lot of hot air
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Old Feb 10, 2025 | 10:24 AM
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Yeah, they really blow
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Old Feb 10, 2025 | 01:40 PM
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2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Originally Posted by BOTUS
turbos are just a lot of hot air
Go drive in high mountain roads and you know how they really blow...
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Old Feb 10, 2025 | 02:08 PM
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Originally Posted by Arrie
Go drive in high mountain roads and you know how they really blow...
it just builds more atmosphere for your party
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