Mercedes-Benz has completely redesigned its top-of-the-line S-Class sedans for 2000. The S430 is powered by a 4.3-liter V8, while the S500 uses a 5.0-liter V8. The two S-Class models sport a striking coupe-like profile and a unique face reminiscent of the company's oval-headlight models.
They aren't as long overall as the previous generation of S-Class cars, but they are roomier, faster, lighter, more efficient and far more sophisticated.
The S-Class earned the "Best of Show" award at the most recent Paris Motor Show. Mercedes cars are vastly improved from where they were nearly a decade ago: When the last-generation S-Class debuted, it became an object of derision. It was a masterpiece of engineering, but it became a symbol of an era that had come and gone. It was too heavy, ostentatious and expensive and it guzzled gas.
The shortcomings of the S-Class made it clear the automaker needed to break with its smug tradition. It was time to listen to the customer and watch the competition--particularly a newcomer called Lexus.
This newly redesigned 2000 Mercedes-Benz S500 is proof that Mercedes has seen the light, a symbol of a turnaround. It debuted in Europe last fall and is now making its appearance at U.S. dealerships -- 18 months ahead of the company's original schedule.
Two models comprise the S-Class lineup: the $70,295 S430 and the $78,445 S500. (Prices include the $595 destination charge.)
The old S-Class was among the world's most refined automobiles, but it had a Germanic formalness that was never truly inviting. One felt more admiration than aspiration. Not so the 2000 edition S500. It is still very Teutonic in design, clearly expensive, but far less imperious. It is a much warmer, inviting and contemporary vehicle, softer and, yes, even sensuous. The S500 is now more than just a car you'd like to be seen in. Now it looks like one that would be fun to drive.
The old S-Class was the definition of overkill. To minimize wind noise, for example, the windows consisted of two thick panes of glass sandwiched together. It is an example of why the old S-Class was so massive, weighing a daunting 5000 pounds. The new S-Class still has double glass, sandwiched around a noise-reducing plastic sheet, but the panes are half as thick yet just as quiet. They're also notably lighter. Mercedes engineers paid painstaking attention to holding down the all new car's weight, ultimately trimming 500 pounds off the all new S500.
They've also downsized the wheelbase and overall length by more than 2 inches. It is 1.3 inches narrower and nearly 2 inches lower. There's a modest loss in shoulder room, but it is a statistical anomaly in a car this big. What you're more likely to notice is that There is more leg- and headroom due to clever engineering and better component placement.
