1998 MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS

If you've been searching for a piece of automotive history that still commands attention on the road today, this 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 420 Sedan for sale at PUR MOTORS in Glendale, California is exactly what you've been looking for. With its timeless W140 body design, legendary German engineering, and a presence that newer luxury sedans still struggle to match, this classic S-Class represents one of the most compelling used luxury buys available in the Los Angeles area right now.

About This 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 420

The W140 generation S-Class — built from 1991 to 1999 — is widely regarded by Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and automotive historians as one of the finest automobiles ever constructed. This particular example has covered 144,524 miles, which for a properly maintained W140 S-Class is entirely reasonable. These cars were engineered to last well beyond 200,000 miles when cared for, and surviving examples in drivable condition are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Whether you're a collector, a daily driver who appreciates old-world luxury, or simply someone who wants a flagship sedan that makes an undeniable statement, this 1998 S 420 deserves your attention.

1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Performance and Engine

The 4.2-Liter V8 — Smooth, Capable, and Built to Last

Under the hood of this S 420 sits Mercedes-Benz's naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine — a powerplant that produces around 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque in its factory configuration. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, this combination delivers the kind of effortless, wave-of-torque acceleration that defined luxury motoring in the late 1990s. The M119 V8 engine in these cars has a well-earned reputation for durability — it is an interference-free design built with over-engineering standards that simply aren't applied to modern vehicles. On the highway or cruising through the streets of Glendale and the greater Los Angeles basin, the S 420 remains composed, quiet, and genuinely pleasurable to drive. RWD dynamics mean the car feels planted and engaging, particularly on the sweeping on-ramps and open stretches common throughout Los Angeles County.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Features and Interior

Flagship Luxury That Defined an Era

When Mercedes-Benz developed the W140 S-Class, the directive was simple: build the best car in the world, regardless of cost. The result was an interior laden with features that were genuinely cutting-edge for their time. The S 420 trim brought buyers a richly appointed cabin with genuine wood trim, supple leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control, power everything, and a ride quality achieved through an air suspension system that remains impressively smooth decades later. The rear cabin, in particular, is generously proportioned — this is a car that was designed to be driven in as much as driven. Heated front seats, a premium sound system, power-adjustable memory seats, and automatic dimming mirrors were all part of the S-Class experience in this era. While this is a 1998 model, the build quality and material thickness throughout the interior far exceed what most modern vehicles offer at any price point.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reliability and Ownership

What to Expect Owning a W140 S-Class

Owning a W140 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a rewarding experience, but it requires going in with realistic expectations. These cars were built without compromise, which means repairs and maintenance use genuine Mercedes-Benz components that carry a premium price. The M119 V8 itself is generally robust, but at this mileage buyers should budget for common age-related service items including air suspension components (the hydraulic ride-height system can develop leaks over time), cooling system refreshes, and rubber seals or gaskets that harden with age. Transmission fluid services are important on these cars. The good news is that the W140 S-Class has a large and passionate enthusiast community — parts availability through both OEM and aftermarket channels is solid, and independent Mercedes-Benz specialists throughout the Los Angeles area are well-versed in servicing this generation. For the buyer who respects what they're purchasing and maintains it accordingly, a W140 S-Class can provide years of distinguished, reliable service.

Why Buy From PUR MOTORS in Glendale, California

PUR MOTORS, located in Glendale in Los Angeles County, California, has built a reputation for sourcing unique, interesting vehicles that stand apart from the typical used car lot inventory. If you're the kind of buyer who appreciates a car with character, history, and genuine engineering significance, PUR MOTORS understands what you're looking for. Their team is knowledgeable and straightforward, and buying from an independent dealer in Glendale means you're working with people who are genuinely invested in matching the right buyer to the right car — not pushing volume for a corporate quota. Glendale is also an ideal location for buyers throughout Los Angeles County, sitting conveniently accessible from Burbank, Pasadena, Silver Lake, and the broader San Fernando Valley.

Financing a Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Near Glendale

Financing a classic or vintage luxury vehicle can feel complicated, but PUR MOTORS works to make the process as simple as possible for buyers throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Whether you have strong credit or are rebuilding, it's worth having a conversation with their team about available financing options. Many buyers in the Glendale and Los Angeles County area also choose to arrange financing through their own bank or credit union for a vehicle in this category — and PUR MOTORS is happy to work alongside outside lenders. For a vehicle at this price point, personal loans and classic car financing products can also be worth exploring. Reach out to the team at (818) 502-0202 to discuss what works best for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 420 a good buy?

For the right buyer, absolutely. The W140 S-Class is considered by many automotive enthusiasts to be the greatest Mercedes-Benz ever built. At this stage in its life it represents extraordinary value for the engineering and luxury it delivers, but prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed and budget for ongoing maintenance costs that are higher than a typical used car.

How many miles is too many on a W140 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

The M119 V8 engine and the overall W140 platform were engineered for longevity. Well-maintained examples routinely surpass 200,000 to 250,000 miles. At 144,524 miles, this car is well within the range where — with proper care — it has significant life remaining. Maintenance history and overall condition matter far more than mileage alone on these vehicles.

What does the S 420 trim include versus other S-Class models?

The S 420 sits at the heart of the W140 lineup, powered by the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. It includes the full range of W140 luxury appointments — leather interior, wood trim, air suspension, dual-zone climate control, and all power accessories — without the added complexity of the larger displacement S 500 or S 600 engines. Many enthusiasts consider it the sweet spot of the W140 range.

Is it expensive to maintain a 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Maintenance costs are higher than average. Parts are premium-priced, and some systems — particularly the air suspension and climate control electronics — can be costly to repair. However, Los Angeles County has an abundance of qualified independent Mercedes-Benz specialists who can service these cars at rates significantly below dealership prices, and the W140 community provides extensive resources for owners.

Where can I find a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale in Glendale, CA?

PUR MOTORS in Glendale, California currently has this 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 420 available. Contact them at (818) 502-0202 to arrange a viewing or test drive.

Serving Glendale and Surrounding Areas

PUR MOTORS is proud to serve car buyers throughout Glendale and the broader Los Angeles County region. Customers regularly visit from Burbank, Pasadena, La Cañada Flintridge, Eagle Rock, Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Sunland-Tujunga, and communities throughout the San Fernando Valley. If you're within driving distance of Glendale, making the trip to see a vehicle as rare and distinctive as a well-preserved W140 S 420 is absolutely worth your time. Los Angeles County is one of the few places in the country where a car like this can be driven and enjoyed year-round, and finding one locally means you can inspect it in person before committing.

Contact PUR MOTORS Today

Don't let this 1998 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 420 pass you by. Opportunities to own a genuine W140 S-Class in driver condition are becoming rarer every year, and this example at PUR MOTORS in Glendale, California won't be available for long. Call the team today at (818) 502-0202 to ask questions, schedule a viewing, or arrange a test drive. Come experience firsthand why the W140 Mercedes-Benz S-Class remains one of the most respected luxury automobiles ever built — and why this one, right here in Glendale in Los Angeles County, might be exactly what you've been looking for.