Not All Mercs Are Created Equal
Few car companies have a legacy that matches that of Mercedes, its three-pointed star a symbol of elegance and luxury. However, that doesn't mean everything that has come out of its factory over the last century has been a win; like any company, Mercedes has had its fair share of flops. From bulletproof classics to notorious misses, here's a look at the 10 worst and the 10 best Mercedes models ever produced.
1. AMG GLE 63
On the surface, the AMG GLE 63 looks like a luxury SUV that could compete with the likes of a Porsche Cayenne, but in reality, it's one of the most unreliable luxury vehicles you can find. It's extremely overpowered, and owners frequently complain about digital glitches and dangerous suspension failures.
2. Sprinter Van
If you're thinking about selling all your possessions and entering the #vanlife, do it in something other than a Sprinter. It's extremely unreliable with frequent mechanical fiascos like oil seal leaks, injector seal failures, and electronic stability program malfunctions.
3. W210
The W210 is known for being a love-hate car. On one hand, it has innovative styling and technology, but its rust issues, suspension problems, and engine leaks place the other hand firmly in the "hate" category.
4. ML320 (2001)
The first-generation W163 was a slightly too ambitious luxury SUV for its time. It was one of Mercedes' first entries into the SUV market, but people remember it more for its reliability issues, like rust, suspension problems, and transmission issues, than anything.
5. W168 (1997-2004)
The W168 is remembered as one of Mercedes' most spectacular flops. After failing a safety test in Sweden, during which the car flipped over while swerving around an obstacle, Mercedes was forced to recall it and make changes to the suspension. Even after the problem was fixed, owners complained of rust issues and slow, unrefined performance.
6. 2014 CLA250
The CLA250 was Mercedes' attempt to attract younger buyers with a sleek, coupe-like body and a lower price tag. However, while the design is eye-catching, the performance and drive quality are not at the caliber you would expect from a Mercedes.
7. E350 (2006-2007)
While the E350 looked and felt refined, it was rife with issues that made it less desirable. The main problem was with the balance shaft and timing chain, which could destroy the performance and lead to costly repairs.
8. R-Class (2006-2013)
The R-Class is a classic example of trying to do too much and failing at everything. It was meant to combine the comfort of a sedan, the space of an SUV, and the style of a crossover, but it ended up looking odd, having poor performance, and frequent electronic glitches.
9. S-Class (1998-2005)
The S-Class of the late 90s and early 2000s was a bold redesign for Mercedes’ flagship luxury sedan; some would say too bold. It was plagued by electrical nightmares, rust, and suspension issues.
10. 2017-20 X-Class
The X-Class was Mercedes' infamous attempt to enter the luxury pickup market. Although it flashed the Mercedes badge, it was essentially a dressed-up Nissan Navara, with limited engine performance that wasn't fooling anyone.
More Cars from Berlin, Germany on Wikimedia
Now that we've talked about Mercedes' most dismal failures, let's talk about the models that give the company its stellar reputation.
1. 300SL Gullwing
The 300SL is easily the most beautiful and iconic Mercedes ever produced. Modeled after the Mercedes that won the 1952 24 Hours of Le Mans, it was one of the fastest cars of the 1950s, with a stunning, aerodynamic, and lightweight body.
2. G-Wagen
The G-Wagen is probably the most over-the-top production SUV ever made. Originally designed for military applications, it's virtually indestructible, has unreal off-road capabilities, insane speed, and surprisingly agile handling, all wrapped up in a super luxurious package.
3. AMG-GT
The AMG-GT is one of Mercedes' most extreme production sports cars. Created to compete with the Porsche 911, it's really fast, has a stunning design, and incredibly agile handling.
Francesco Compagnone on Unsplash
4. EQS
Mercedes' first all-electric sedan, the EQS, represents the future of luxury automaking. It has supercar-level acceleration, a sleek design, a record-low drag coefficient, and extremely innovative tech.
5. SLS AMG
Complete with gullwing doors, the SLS AMG is a modern tribute to the 300SL. It's visually striking, with supercar performance and advanced engineering.
6. W126
The W126 is renowned for its insane reliability, with some 1990s still running today without any major issues. Its clean and formal lines give it a timeless appeal and make it instantly recognizable as a Mercedes classic.
7. 190E
The 190E remains one of the most beloved classic Mercedes. It was one of the most iconic compact executive cars of the 1980s, known for its reliability, engineering prowess, elegant design, and advanced technology.
8. 300SD
While not the flashiest Mercedes model, the 300SD is known for its incredible engineering, durability, fuel efficiency, and luxury features. Even decades-old 300SDs are still driving on the road today, a testament to the car's longevity.
9. 280SL Pagoda
The 280SL is one of the most elegant and stylish Mercedes ever made, characterized by its long hood, concave hardtop, and wide stance. It was the perfect balance between sporty and sophisticated.
10. 500E
The 500E was a collaborative effort between Porsche and Mercedes. A wolf in sheep's clothing, it had the understated exterior of an E-Class, but underneath the hood, it packed an insanely powerful (for its time) engine that could compete with the likes of a Corvette.
