High Octane

Hello everyone,

I'm new to this forum. This is my first question! I've been intrigued by used S-Classes since they're so cheap. Reliability is definitely above average (according to reports), and performance is also satisfying.

I'm interested in a used S65 AMG. I may or may not buy the car (maybe will get something newer), but it's still an option. I'm going to attend college and my campus is open with tons of parking spaces. I won't be driving too much every year (maybe 6,000 miles). I don't need the latest technology - as a college student, I want the most fun. The S65 achieves that for a low price.

Is there any difference between the 07 and 08 model years? The 07 cars are definitely cheaper regardless of mileage. I'm looking to get something under 80k miles for reliability concerns, but I also don't want to get something which was a prototype. Is the 08 virtually identical to the 07, the first model year for the W221 S65 AMG? What are the major differences in terms of reliability, mechanical components, and technology and features?

rockykhan

Diamond stitched interior is one that jumps right out .

JohnLane

I love the diamond stitched interior in my 2008.

Young feller are you aware of what you are getting in bed with the S-Class?

You mention reliability and being in College within the same sentence. S-65 can and will require a steady diet of $3000 repairs. If this is not for you... Camry or Accord can be had new for less dough and will get gasoline and oil changes the whole time you are in school.

Welwynnick

Would you like some good advice from lots of people with considerable experience of owning these sorts of cars?

Don't do it.

Give yourself an upgrade path to look forwards to as you get older.

Nick

UNderdog

https://mbworld.org/forums/s55-amg-s...-2007-s65.html

Here is a prior discussion. My post #15 kinda sums it up. I looked at both years but wanted the diamond stitching so went with '08. To understand the differences between the two years I set up a spreadsheet of every car available across the county from 4 different sites and studied the pictures and descriptions and kept track of sales including prices for about 2/3 months before I pulled the trigger. IMO if you don't have the ability to do a lot of maintenance and minor repair work yourself you will need deep pockets to keep the car running properly. Even if you do your own work parts are pricey so keep this in mind.

VinnyT

This made me laugh. Even though I am getting bashed on my other thread, you say this. Steady diet of $3000 repairs.

And my advice to you OP, RUN LIKE HELL away from these cars unless you have tons of cash/credit.

JohnLane

Vinny many of us enjoy the cars and have effective work arounds for that steady diet of $3000 repairs...

Or....

We don't cry about it.

That said... So long as OP's eyes are wide open. His choice.