Why is the Mercedes-Benz S500 rarely seen?

[DiLeila]

Mercedes-Benz S500 is rarely seen due to its long history, low ownership, and poor cost performance. The following is an introduction to the configuration of the Mercedes-Benz S500: 1. Brand culture: The Mercedes-Benz S500 is a sedan that sets new standards in terms of power performance and emissions. The hybrid drive system of this model consists of a powerful eight-cylinder gasoline engine and a high-torque electric motor, operating economically to minimize environmental impact. 2. Standard configuration: xenon headlights, electric sunroof, aluminum alloy wheels, leather seats, wood interior, AM/FM radio, CD player, car phone, electric driver's seat, etc.

[SimonAnn]

The rarity of the Mercedes-Benz S500 is actually quite normal. As a high-end variant within the S-Class lineup, its price easily exceeds two million yuan, significantly more expensive than the standard S-Class models, making potential buyers carefully weigh its value. Some business executives feel that at this price point, they might as well opt for the Maybach S-Class or Porsche Panamera Turbo, which offer more prestige. Additionally, with electric vehicles dominating the market, affluent buyers are more inclined to try Mercedes' EQS, which boasts cutting-edge technology and exempts them from purchase taxes. Coupled with the S500's inherently limited production volume and sparse dealer inventory, it's natural to see few on the roads. Honestly, spending a day in Shanghai's Lujiazui, you might spot fewer S500s than half the number of entry-level S400 models.

[BrooklynAnn]

Having run an auto repair shop for over a decade, I've dealt with many S-Class owners. The S500 is rare primarily because its 4.0T engine is too delicate – one maintenance session costs as much as three for an S400. Many owners can afford the car but not its upkeep. Additionally, environmental policies in many cities are unfriendly toward high-displacement vehicles. In Beijing and Shanghai, blue license plates are hard to come by, with auction costs high enough to buy an Audi A4. Many owners of older S500 models have since traded up, but no one dares to take on these used cars in the secondary market – who can handle a transmission repair costing 60,000 to 70,000 yuan? As a result, few new S500s are sold, old ones are quickly phased out, making them naturally scarce.

[AriannaAnn]

From a product positioning perspective, the S500 finds itself in an awkward spot. It can't match the performance of the AMG S63, nor does it offer the comfort level of the Maybach S480, while its price sits squarely in the middle. Buyers in this segment typically either opt for the entry-level model for affordability or go all-in for the top-tier version. Mercedes-Benz itself primarily promotes the S400 and Maybach series, with dealerships keeping minimal S500 inventory. At an automotive forum last year, a sales director mentioned that S500 production accounts for less than 10% of total S-Class output. With the current abundance of million-yuan-level new energy vehicle options, consumers are more inclined to try models like the HiPhi or NIO ET7.