Mercedes buying dilemma: Confused between new E-Class and used S-Class

My dad first bought a new Merc C Class in 2013 and he has completely fallen in love with the car and the brand.

BHPian Ashar recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Dear all. I am requesting your opinion on this doubt that I have with regards to an upcoming car purchase for my dad. You all are the experts when it comes to cars and I am sure I won't get a better answer from anywhere else. Your humble opinion on this please!!

My dad first bought a new Merc C Class in 2013 and he has been driving/riding in it ever since and he has completely fallen in love with the car and the brand. Now almost 10 years have passed and now he feels it's time to upgrade. We test drove a Merc E Class (E 220 d) recently and he came out really pleased with the car and almost decided to go ahead with the purchase when his friend proposed to him the idea of getting a 3-4-5 year old S Class for the same amount of money. His friend told him that a 4 year old S Class (the older generation one) was a much better car than even the new E class. FYI, the on road price for a new E class is Rs. 95.75 lacs (on road - Trivandrum, Kerala).

Since then, we have been really confused about this with opinions supporting either side. Please help us arrive at the best decision.

PS: Since, we have been using a C Class for the past 10 years, we have already found out an independent garage for its maintenance works and we found it to be even better (and undoubtedly more cost effective) than Merc Authorized service center. So, the question of service is not a big issue.

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

You can't go wrong with either car, and both are the best-in-class in terms of comfort.

Between the two, I would strongly recommend the S-Class:

It's the best sedan in the world. Period.

Think of the E-Class LWB as a 5-star hotel room. Think of the S-Class as a suite at Taj or Oberoi.

Within your budget, you will easily get a late model W222 still within its warranty period. Take the extended warranty package, and follow our used car checklist (including service history, checking past insurance claims etc.) to the T. Your risk is effectively zero.

The S-Class air suspension is magic. E-Class cannot come close to it.

The opulence, luxury & quality of the S-Class is two levels above the E-Class. The E-Class is closer to the C-Class in terms of part quality than the S-Class.

Here's what BHPian androdev had to say on the matter:

Just my personal opinion.

The best/flagship car in the family garage is worth buying as new. It's a bit of celebration and there is a sense of rewarding yourself and the family for the hard work, etc. Even after 10-15 years, I get warm and fuzzy when I look at my family pictures during the new car delivery and early days after the arrival of the new car. The older I grow, the more value these things seem to acquire.

S-Class in particular is a status symbol and everyone in your circles would talk about it. How you bought it matters. You might want to explore the option of waiting for a discounted new S Class during a model change period and stretch your budget.

If new S Class is not an option in near future, go for the new E Class - but pay attention to any upcoming model changes. Unlike in the past, E class LWB has significantly reduced the gap between E and S Class sedans making such a decision a lot to do with "image" than "value".

If it's not for your dad/family but for a young solo driver, I would say a used car from a higher segment is usually a better choice.

Here's what BHPian lamborghini had to say on the matter:

Get the S Class - for the same budget you'd get a within warranty W222 S Class easily - extend the warranty and enjoy the superior car.

Compared to the E Class - you will get much better rear seat comfort, effortless performance, superlative ride, and superior interior fit and finish.

Plus both the current E & outgoing S are of the same generation, so it's not like you would be getting a newer generation car except some changes like UI, etc.

Of course maintenance would be higher and maybe finding a competent workshop would help - but if you can digest the maintenance cost, it's well worth it!

In case you still decide to go for the E Class, do keep in mind that an all new model is literally around the corner and would be worth waiting for (esp given the scarce discounts).

If your father drives then also look at the BMW 7 series pre-owned, 6GT new.

Here's what BHPian NazgulLOTR had to say on the matter:

There is definitely a sentiment attached to the Pointed star in your household. If you are convinced it's the Merc which has to be the next car, i'd recommend jumping to the S Class. The comfort and pampering which it will offer will not be comparable to even the latest E class.

This also gives an opportunity to be chauffeured around while being seated in business class like seats - the way one should travel (unless you are an enthusiast)

I am personally not a big fan of the styling of the new E but the S class in every generation has always been a looker. It's worth it's price even while standing still in my opinion.

Here's what BHPian Akshay1234 had to say on the matter:

Going against the tide, but I would suggest a used S. Its a far superior machine to the E class, and while the spec sheets may not show a large difference, one drive in the S will seal the deal. It is far better built, more comfortable, really seals you from the outside world. A 3 year old low run S class would fit right into your budget, and considering you have a good independent shop wont break the bank either.

Here's what BHPian ajmat had to say on the matter:

My recommendation is the S. It might be dated but feel the trim, touch the vents and feel the quality. The E is full of metal coated plastics.

Unless the car has workhorse duties, go for the S, keep 3 Lakhs aside for the air suspension overhaul and identify a good FNG.

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