Finding a Luxury Sedan with V8 on a Budget
Searching for a luxury sedan with a V8 engine within a $20,000 budget can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Two common vehicles meet most of the criteria: the early to mid-2010s Lexus GS and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class from the early 2010s. While the Lexus GS is a great luxury sedan, it lacks a V8 option. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, however, checks all the boxes.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class: A Luxury Bargain
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is renowned for its luxury and performance. The W222 chassis class, produced from 2014 to 2020, is the sixth generation of the S-Class. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550, for instance, features a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 449 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph.
For those seeking even more performance, the S63 AMG version of the sixth-generation S-Class is available, boasting 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. Although it comes with a higher price tag, it’s still possible to find one within the $20,000 budget.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550 has the following performance specs:
- Horsepower: 455 @ 5,250 – 5,500 RPM
- Torque: 516 @ 1,800 – 3,500 RPM
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 130 mph
- 0-60 time: 4.8 seconds
As expected with a V8 engine, fuel economy takes a hit. The RWD version has an EPA rating of 17 mpg/city and 25 mpg/highway, while the 4Matic version is rated at 16/city and 26/highway. The high-performance S63 gets 15 mpg/city and 23 mpg/highway and is only available in AWD.
Luxury and Comfort
Inside the 2014 S-Class, you’ll find a cabin that’s ahead of its time in terms of technology, featuring a dual-screen setup for infotainment and instrumentation. The interior boasts high-quality leather, faux wood accents, and elegant aluminum trim. The Mercedes Airmatic adaptive suspension system provides an exceptionally comfortable ride for all passengers. Optional features include massaging seats, heated and cooled cupholders, and a 24-speaker Burmester surround audio system.
Safety Features
The sixth-generation S-Class came equipped with numerous safety features, including a rearview camera, forward collision with crash-avoidance braking, and a driver drowsiness monitor. Higher-trim models added features like night vision, blind spot monitoring, pedestrian detection, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. These advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were considered luxurious in 2014 but are now becoming standard in many vehicles.
Depreciation and Reliability
When new, the S550 was priced between $92,900 and $95,900, while the S63 topped out at over $139,000. The significant depreciation makes it an attractive option for those looking for a luxury performance car without the hefty price tag. However, it’s essential to consider the reliability and maintenance costs. According to CarEdge, the 2014 S550 has an annual average repair cost of $871. RepairPal gives this car 2.5 stars out of 5 for reliability. Ensuring regular maintenance is up-to-date can help mitigate some of these costs.
In conclusion, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an excellent choice for those seeking a luxury sedan with a V8 engine within a $20,000 budget. It offers a perfect blend of luxury, performance, and comfort, making it a worthwhile consideration for any used car buyer.
