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Initial purchase and servicing costs are high, and the big-engined cars depreciate the worst. That said, the entry-level S280 is also regarded as a bit of an orphan in the trade. Fuel economy can be coaxed into the mid-20s on the 280 and 320 petrol, but only the 320CDI diesel gets over 30. One of the best cars in the world, but depreciation is always a big issue for the S-Class. Mid-range models seem to have the most respectable residuals, the S320 being probably the most sensible buy, while the S320 Cdi diesel also has the makings of a value-holder. Top-end models will lose vast amounts. Still, a safer financial bet than a Rolls or a BMW. Surprisingly reasonable, all told. The range tends to undercut comparable BMW 7-Series models. Limousine versions (only available from the S320 upwards) add £5000, however, and remember, the list price is just the starting point with an S-Class - options are fearsomely expensive.
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