The Good
The 2000 S-Class offers a smooth, powerful ride with various engine options appealing to performance enthusiasts. Its luxurious interior and comfortable seats provide a serene driving experience, satisfying emotional desires. For practical buyers, it offers solid build quality, advanced safety features for its time, and a prestigious image, even on the used market.
The Bad
The 2000 S-Class can be prone to electrical issues, particularly with the complex electronics systems. Air suspension problems are also common and costly to repair. Rust can be an issue, especially in areas with harsh winters. Maintenance can be expensive due to the sophisticated engineering and specialized parts required.
2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- S430: 4.3L V8
- S500: 5.0L V8
- S600: 5.8L V12
- Horsepower:
- S430: 275 hp
- S500: 302 hp
- S600: 362 hp
- Fuel Economy (Estimated):
- S430: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- S500: 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- S600: 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- S430: 7.1 seconds
- S500: 6.3 seconds
- S600: 6.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or specified by manufacturer.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S430: Leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, power seats, premium sound system, sunroof, alloy wheels.
- S500: Adds features like upgraded leather, heated seats, and potentially more advanced options.
- S600: Includes all the luxury features, V12 engine, and often exclusive interior trim options. It features basically every available option at the time.
- Common across trims: COMAND system with navigation (optional), Tele-Aid emergency system, xenon headlights, and advanced safety systems like ABS and ESP.
2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.3L V8 |
| Engine Size | 4.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Have?
The COMAND system, while advanced for its time, can suffer from pixelation or complete failure. The climate control system can also develop faults, leading to inconsistent heating or cooling.
Electrical gremlins are another recurring theme, affecting everything from the power windows and door locks to the engine management system. Early model years of the W220 (including 2000) had some recalls related to airbags and potential fuel leaks. These should have been addressed by now, but it's essential to check the vehicle's history for recall completion.
Long-term reliability concerns include rust, particularly in areas exposed to salt. Engine and transmission issues are less frequent but can occur with high mileage and poor maintenance. Regular maintenance is crucial, but even then, expect higher repair costs compared to more mainstream vehicles. The 2000 model year is generally considered similar to other early W220 models regarding reliability.
How long will the 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class last?
Long-term durability is decent regarding the engine and transmission, but the electrical and pneumatic systems are more vulnerable. The air suspension, in particular, is a known weakness. Rust can also be a significant factor affecting longevity, especially in colder climates. Overall, proactive maintenance is crucial for realizing its potential lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system integrated audio, navigation (optional), and climate control functions into a central display. The standard sound system was high-quality, and an upgraded Bose sound system was available. Entertainment options included a CD player and available rear-seat entertainment system.
Optional features included heated seats, massaging seats, a sunroof, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control (Distronic).
While official NHTSA or IIHS crash-test ratings from that specific year may be harder to find now, the W220 S-Class was generally considered a very safe vehicle, featuring robust construction and advanced safety technologies for its era. It's important to remember that safety technology has advanced considerably since 2000.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Prices and Market Value
2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cost of Ownership
2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Fuel Efficiency
2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Compare to Other Sedan?
Reliability is where the S-Class falters somewhat compared to the Lexus LS 400, which is known for its bulletproof reliability. The Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series can also suffer from similar electrical and suspension issues as the S-Class.
Price-wise, these cars were all in a similar range when new. On the used market, the Lexus LS 400 often holds its value better due to its reputation for reliability. Alternatives to the 2000 S-Class include a newer Lexus LS if reliability is paramount, or a well-maintained BMW 7 Series or Audi A8 if you prefer a sportier driving experience, but be prepared for similar maintenance costs. If budget is a concern and you want a comparable luxury experience, inspect any of these candidates extremely carefully and prioritize documented maintenance history.
Ranks #792 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 792 | 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class a Good Sedan?
Chrissydoo on July 4, 2020
Very beautiful very powerful unassuming.So I've had this car for 4 months now the electronics can be a little finicky I think because an aftermarket stereo system but it works ok I love this car it's very powerful very comfortable I think mine sat before I bought it the suspension has gotten softer the more I drive it I was a little afraid of the air suspension at first but the more I drove it there less errors that came up I believe it has a few small wiring issues but it's been good so far passed smog with flying colors and just loads of power I truly am happy with it just wish it were silver or gold instead of black...
Benzgirl77 on November 24, 2019
Absolutely in love with my car but buying our firsThe body is perfect no scratches dents missing parts. The car has one issue with the air ride on right rear air bag needs to be replaced. If you do your research youll find the it for an actual fair price , its putting it on.
Mr.Mr. on May 7, 2019
One Of The Most Smoothest Cards I Have Ever DrivenVery Classic Reliable And Sufficient. This Car Also Is Very Roomy Which Is Important In My Opinion For Extra Extra Comfort. Whether If You Ride Alone Or Have A Family This Is The Car For You.
Johny on March 26, 2018
Horsepower is awesomeI love my S500 mercedes once you hit the freeway in this car you will fall in love to it drives very smoothly and the get up is amazing.
KensBenz on November 29, 2017
Most reliable, comfortable and easy to drive.This has plenty of leg room, fast, great speed pick up, easy navigation, great sound system, very comfortable. Great cooling and heating system. Air bags all around you. Very safe to drive.
nasir on November 1, 2017
Most comfortable and reliable car I've ever ownedSuperb comfort, handling and power. The V8 is very powerful and the adjustable airmatic suspension is unparalleled. The transmission in snow mode makes winter driving a breeze.
yaardy202 on October 9, 2017
GarbageI use to own a 2000 S500 and I had to get rid of it. Something always breaking on it. I had a big problem with the gear shifter because Mercedes Benz use a cheap plastic clip which broke easily, I had to use a hammer to beat down on the top of the gear shifter in order to get the car in drive. Now as for the Electronics, Too many electronics ISSUES. They put the seat, heating seat buttons, and the side view mirrors controls "ALL IN ONE" on the door, by the windows and that was a really bad designed. if anyone of the controls go bad you had to replace the whole thing. My seat control went bad and it affected everything else. Another issue was the speedometer Cluster was a factory defect too. went bad. The 2000 S500 Mercedes Benz was built by Chrysler. Total JUNK
Frank O on August 20, 2017
Nice 17 y. old car with low mileageAfraid to drive it & get in accident or get a dent. My Honda Accord with leather seats was more comfortable to drive & more intuitive dashboard controls.
J_A on June 23, 2017
king of ridesthe S430, pulls you into the S-class world with performance, luxury, comfort, style, and prestige. once you drive S-class its tough to ever go back to any other car
Rperian on February 27, 2017
This car floatsThe ride quality and comfort of this car is amazing. It is nice and big, you can cross your legs easily in the back seat.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.