W140 vs E38 vs D2: The Ultimate 90s Luxury Sedan Showdown
The Golden Era of German Luxury Sedans
The 1990s mark a pinnacle of German automotive craftsmanship. Mercedes, BMW, and Audi engaged in a fierce battle for the luxury crown. Today, nearly three decades later, these vehicles are coveted youngtimers with distinct strengths and price profiles.
The Contenders at a Glance
| Feature | Mercedes W140 | BMW E38 | Audi D2 A8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Production | 1991-1998 | 1994-2001 | 1994-2002 |
| Avg Price | €14,234 | €16,915 | €8,500 |
| Weight | 1,890-2,250 kg | 1,810-2,070 kg | 1,710-1,920 kg |
| Signature | Over-engineering | Driving dynamics | Aluminum body |
Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class
The Over-Engineered Masterpiece
The W140 S-Class epitomizes Mercedes-Benz over-engineering. Developed during the economically carefree 1980s, no expense was spared.
Strengths:
- Unmatched build quality
- Most substantial construction of all three
- Timelessly elegant design
- Legendary engines (M104, M119, M120)
- Highest comfort in the segment
Weaknesses:
- Highest fuel consumption
- Complex and expensive electronics
- Some spare parts costly
- High maintenance costs
W140 Price Analysis
| Engine | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| S320 (3.2L I6) | €11,800 | €5,500 | €22,000 |
| S420/S500 (V8) | €15,200 | €7,000 | €28,000 |
| S600 (V12) | €18,500 | €9,000 | €35,000 |
The W140 offers the best value proposition for pure luxury.
BMW E38 7 Series
The Driver’s Choice
The BMW E38 is considered the most dynamic of the trio. It combines luxury with sporting intent like no other.
Strengths:
- Best driving dynamics of the three
- Elegant, timeless design
- Good spare parts availability
- Balanced handling
- Strong community and knowledge base
Weaknesses:
- Vanos issues on six-cylinders
- Subframe rust
- Cooling system on V8 models
- Pixel fade in instrument cluster
E38 Price Analysis
| Engine | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| 728i/730i (I6) | €12,500 | €5,000 | €24,000 |
| 735i/740i (V8) | €17,800 | €8,000 | €32,000 |
| 750i (V12) | €21,500 | €10,000 | €40,000 |
The E38 commands the highest prices, especially in good condition.
Audi A8 D2
The Technology Pioneer
The Audi A8 D2 was revolutionary with its aluminum body (ASF - Audi Space Frame). It’s the lightest and most modern vehicle in the comparison.
Strengths:
- Low weight through aluminum construction
- Quattro all-wheel drive available
- Best corrosion resistance
- Most advanced technology of its time
- Lowest entry prices
Weaknesses:
- Aluminum repairs very expensive
- Less prestige than competition
- Lower spare parts availability
- W12 engine maintenance-intensive
D2 A8 Price Analysis
| Engine | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.8/3.7 V6 | €6,200 | €2,500 | €14,000 |
| 4.2 V8 | €9,500 | €4,000 | €18,000 |
| S8 4.2 | €14,200 | €6,500 | €26,000 |
The D2 is the most affordable entry into 90s luxury.
Direct Comparison: Key Categories
Comfort
| Aspect | W140 | E38 | D2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sound insulation | +++++ | ++++ | +++ |
| Seat comfort | +++++ | ++++ | ++++ |
| Ride comfort | +++++ | ++++ | +++ |
| Climate control | +++++ | ++++ | ++++ |
| Total | 20/20 | 16/20 | 14/20 |
The W140 is the undisputed comfort king.
Driving Dynamics
| Aspect | W140 | E38 | D2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering precision | +++ | +++++ | ++++ |
| Cornering stability | +++ | +++++ | ++++ |
| Braking | ++++ | +++++ | ++++ |
| Agility | ++ | +++++ | ++++ |
| Total | 12/20 | 20/20 | 16/20 |
The E38 dominates in driving enjoyment.
Annual Maintenance Costs (Estimated)
| Cost Type | W140 | E38 | D2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service | €800-1,500 | €600-1,200 | €700-1,400 |
| Wear items | €500-2,000 | €400-1,500 | €600-2,500 |
| Fuel | €3,500-5,000 | €3,000-4,500 | €2,800-4,000 |
| Insurance | €600-1,000 | €650-1,100 | €550-900 |
| Total | €5,400-9,500 | €4,650-8,300 | €4,650-8,800 |
Buying Recommendations by Buyer Type
For Comfort Lovers: Mercedes W140
If maximum comfort and prestige matter more than driving enjoyment, there’s no way around the W140. The S320 with inline-six offers the best balance of reliability and luxury.
Recommendation: W140 S320, under 180,000 km, with service history
For Enthusiasts: BMW E38
Those who want to drive a luxury sedan rather than be chauffeured in one should choose the E38. The 740i offers V8 power with manageable maintenance costs.
Recommendation: E38 740i, model year 1999-2001, rust-free
For Budget-Conscious: Audi D2 A8
The D2 offers luxury features at the lowest price. The aluminum body doesn’t rust, but accident repairs are expensive.
Recommendation: D2 A8 4.2 Quattro, accident-free, with history
Investment Potential
| Model | Current Trend | 5-Year Forecast |
|---|---|---|
| W140 | Rising (+5%/year) | +25-35% |
| E38 | Rising (+7%/year) | +35-45% |
| D2 A8 | Stable (+2%/year) | +10-20% |
The E38 shows the strongest appreciation potential, while the W140 is already an established classic.
Conclusion: Three Paths to Luxury
All three vehicles offer a luxury experience that modern cars in this price range cannot match. The choice depends on your priorities:
- W140: Maximum comfort, highest prestige, highest costs
- E38: Best compromise of luxury and driving enjoyment
- D2 A8: Most affordable entry, most modern technology, highest risk with accident damage
Regardless of choice: Buy condition, not price. A well-maintained example saves more long-term than the low entry price of a neglected vehicle.
Price data from our current market analysis. As of: August 4, 2025