Faults:

Gearbox problems with smooth changing in gears.

Air suspension leak; a very COSTLY fix.

All sorts of wear and tear in the car.

Has a bad sound system.

Air con buttons not functioning properly.

Bootlid hinge was broken and replaced.

Interior light broken.

General Comments:

I love Mercedes cars, but this is probably the worst I've had. Originally brought for my wife, but she bought a C300 as the car was too big. I have been driving it on a daily basis as my work car. I also have a E63 AMG, which I can only say is not even comparable to the S280.

It is useless in terms of power on the highway, but OK for normal roads. Very under powered and heavy.

S Class cars are high maintenance, don't buy one unless you have pocket change or know a technician to fix problems.

Would recommend the 3.7 V6 S Class or V8 models over the 280. I also think the new S Class is a huge improvement to the older model that I have. Have test driven and placed an order for a S600 to replace.

Overall, I think the old S Class is not great. Hopefully my new S Class won't disappoint!

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I was really impressed with this car when I first saw it.

It's absolutely beautiful to look at, and the interior has a real awesome presence, you feel like a million bucks when you're driving this car.

I love the way the doors close for you when they are slightly ajar.

The seats are comfortable, but insist on getting the higher quality leather, not the standard stuff.

It's real peaceful driving it plus the suspension is awesome, it literally glides on air.

What was disappointing was the quality of the paint work - I felt that it was un-Mercedes like to be covered in small paint pits from stones or whatever after only having the vehicle for a very small period of time.

This is something that Mercedes has to sort out.

Apart from that I think it's one of the most beautiful cars to own.