Vacation Season: The Best Long-Distance Comfort Cars
The Perfect Companions for Long Vacation Drives
Summer holidays are approaching, and many families are planning road trips to the south. We present the best long-distance vehicles from the premium used car segment.
What Makes a Good Long-Distance Vehicle?
Comfort Factors
| Criterion | Importance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension comfort | Very high | Long stages without fatigue |
| Sound insulation | High | Relaxed conversations possible |
| Air conditioning | High | Effective cooling even at 40°C |
| Seat comfort | Very high | Ergonomics on 1,000+ km |
| Cargo space | Medium-High | Luggage for 4 people |
Practical Aspects
- Range: At least 700 km per tank
- Reliability: Proven technology without surprises
- Serviceability: Workshops available across Europe
- Spare parts: Good availability even abroad
Top 5 Long-Distance Wagons
1. Mercedes W210 E-Class Estate
| Property | Rating |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Excellent |
| Cargo space | 640-1,975 liters |
| Reliability | Very good (E280/E320) |
| Average price | €5,800 |
Recommendation: E280 or E320 petrol. The M112 V6 is indestructible and quiet.
Advantages:
- Silky smooth suspension
- Outstanding seats
- Generous trunk
- Affordable spare parts
2. BMW E39 Touring
| Property | Rating |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Very good |
| Cargo space | 410-1,525 liters |
| Reliability | Good (525i/530i) |
| Average price | €7,800 |
Recommendation: 525i or 530i. The M54 offers sovereignty with efficiency.
Advantages:
- Driving dynamics despite comfort
- Balanced handling
- Good air conditioning
- Premium ambiance
3. Audi A6 C5 Avant
| Property | Rating |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Very good |
| Cargo space | 455-1,590 liters |
| Reliability | Good (2.4/3.0) |
| Average price | €5,200 |
Recommendation: 2.4 V6 or 3.0 V6 with Quattro for flexibility.
Advantages:
- Quiet cabin
- Quattro for all conditions
- Practical cargo area
- Good value for money
4. Mercedes W140 S-Class
| Property | Rating |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Outstanding |
| Cargo space | 530 liters |
| Reliability | Good (S320/S500) |
| Average price | €12,680 |
Recommendation: S320 for efficiency, S500 for sovereign performance.
Advantages:
- Unmatched ride comfort
- Best sound insulation
- First-class air conditioning
- Limousine feeling
5. BMW E38 7 Series
| Property | Rating |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Outstanding |
| Cargo space | 500 liters |
| Reliability | Good (728i/735i) |
| Average price | €14,850 |
Recommendation: 728i for economy, 735i for V8 sovereignty.
Advantages:
- Legendary ride comfort
- Mature technology
- Powerful engines
- Premium equipment
Pre-Vacation Checklist
Technical Inspection
| Component | Check |
|---|---|
| Air conditioning | Cooling performance and smell |
| Tires | Tread and age (DOT) |
| Brakes | Pads and discs |
| Oil | Level and condition |
| Cooling system | Coolant level, hoses |
| Lights | All functions |
Recommended Equipment
Mandatory:
- Warning triangle and safety vest
- First aid kit (check expiration date!)
- Spare bulb set
- Country-specific vignettes
Recommended:
- Cooler for drinks
- Sun shades for side windows
- USB charger
- Offline navigation
Fuel Consumption Comparison
Average Consumption on Long Distances
| Model | Engine | Highway | Overland | Tank Size | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W210 E280 | V6 2.8 | 9.5 L | 7.8 L | 70 L | 735 km |
| E39 525i | I6 2.5 | 9.2 L | 7.5 L | 70 L | 760 km |
| A6 2.4 | V6 2.4 | 10.0 L | 8.0 L | 70 L | 700 km |
| W140 S320 | I6 3.2 | 11.5 L | 9.0 L | 100 L | 870 km |
| E38 728i | I6 2.8 | 10.5 L | 8.5 L | 85 L | 810 km |
The large sedans impress with enormous tank range despite higher consumption.
Cost Calculation: 2,000 km Vacation Trip
Sample Calculation (€1.80/liter Premium)
| Vehicle | Consumption | Total Liters | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| W210 E280 | 8.5 L/100km | 170 L | €306 |
| E39 525i | 8.2 L/100km | 164 L | €295 |
| A6 2.4 | 8.8 L/100km | 176 L | €317 |
| W140 S320 | 10.0 L/100km | 200 L | €360 |
| E38 728i | 9.3 L/100km | 186 L | €335 |
The higher consumption of luxury sedans is put into perspective by the comfort gain.
Conclusion
For relaxed vacation driving this summer we recommend:
Budget up to €6,000: Mercedes W210 E280 Estate Budget up to €8,000: BMW E39 525i Touring Maximum comfort: Mercedes W140 S320 or BMW E38 728i
All mentioned vehicles offer proven technology, good comfort and spare parts available across Europe – the ideal prerequisites for stress-free vacation kilometers.
Price data from our current market analysis. Safe travels and happy holidays!