Description
1996 Mercedes-Benz S500 L (W140) – Exceptional Condition | Full History | Rust-Free
A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally well-kept Mercedes-Benz W140 S500 L, widely regarded as one of the finest luxury saloons Mercedes-Benz ever produced.
Finished in elegant dark blue metallic with tan leather interior, this long-wheelbase S-Class presents beautifully and retains the solid, over-engineered feel that made the W140 legendary.
This is not a tired or neglected example. It is a genuinely cared-for car with excellent provenance, extensive history, rust addressed properly, and superb overall presentation.
Vehicle Details
Model: Mercedes-Benz S500 L (W140)
Year: 1996
Mileage: 116, 000 miles
Engine: 5. 0 litre V8 (M119)
Transmission: Automatic
Colour: Dark Blue Metallic
Interior: Tan Leather
Keys: Two original keys
MOT: Recently passed with no advisories
History & Provenance
The car benefits from an extensive and well-documented service history, including multiple early Mercedes-Benz main dealer service stamps from Mercedes-Benz Brentford (Great West Road).
The original maintenance booklet is present with consistent mileage progression throughout the car’s life.
Also included:
Original owner’s manuals
Maintenance booklet
Becker audio literature
Mercedes security system documentation
Dealer directory and touring documentation
The car has covered only approximately 3, 000 miles per year during current ownership and has been carefully maintained rather than used as daily transport.
Maintenance & Recent Work
Approximately three years ago the following major maintenance work was carried out:
Full engine service
Gearbox service
Differential service
Coolant replacement
Brake fluid flush
New brake discs and pads
Since then the vehicle has covered very little mileage.
Importantly, both front wings were professionally replaced due to minor age-related corrosion — a known W140 issue — meaning the car now presents extremely well and is solid and rust-free.
Condition
Exterior
The bodywork is in excellent condition with strong paint finish, straight panels and excellent overall presentation.
The car retains the understated yet imposing appearance that defines the W140 generation.
Interior
The interior is exceptionally well preserved:
Leather remains supple and well-kept
Wood trim presents beautifully
Dashboard is uncracked
Carpets and cabin trim remain in excellent order
The cabin still delivers the bank-vault refinement these cars became famous for.
Mechanical
The M119 V8 engine performs exactly as it should — smooth, quiet and powerful.
The car drives beautifully with excellent road manners, refinement and comfort.
Additional Features
Long wheelbase model (S500 L)
Electric seats
Climate control
Cruise control
Original Mercedes telephone
New Bluetooth head unit with phone connectivity
Excellent tyres
Two original keys
Summary
Finding a genuinely solid, rust-free and properly maintained W140 is becoming increasingly difficult.
Many examples on the market suffer from corrosion, neglected maintenance or incomplete history. This car stands apart due to:
Excellent provenance
Strong documented service history
Rust properly addressed
Superb interior condition
No advisory MOT
Careful long-term ownership
An increasingly collectible modern classic and one of the last truly over-engineered Mercedes-Benz flagship saloons.
Private Sale
Sensible enquiries welcome.
No swaps or unrealistic offers please.
