10 Depreciated Luxury Car Alternatives To The Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan has long been one of the most respected and desirable of all the large flagship luxury cars. First launched in 1972 with the W116 generation, the model has improved exponentially in the subsequent years. In addition to comfort and luxury, the S-Class has established an enviable reputation for technological innovation. From a collision-proof fuel tank, being the first series production car fitted with ABS, and even offering night vision, the S-Class Mercedes is a sublime piece of engineering. Therefore, it’s not hard to conclude that the “S” in S-Class stands for “special” – because that’s what this car is.

The latest and seventh-generation W223 model was introduced in 2021 and is arguably the greatest iteration yet. While the S-Class boasts numerous selling points, its high list price is certainly not one of them. The current 2023 model range kicks off at a massive $114,500 for the S500, placing it firmly out of the grasp of many buyers.

10 2016 BMW 7 Series

BMW released an all-new 6th-generation version of its accomplished 7 Series in 2016. The brand’s flagship sedan remained true to form, with a suitably luxurious interior. While some of the other rivals on this list offer a higher quality cabin feel, the 7 Series is still a great place to crush miles. The car’s driver gauges have been swapped in for a substantial 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen display, providing a modern look.

Regardless of the ambient temperature, standard fitment four-zone climate control will ensure everyone is happy. For those buyers looking for the ultimate in comfort, an optional “Rear Executive Lounge Seating Package” allows occupants to recline the rear seats up to 42.5 degrees. Another standard feature is “Ambient Lighting”, which aligns with the tone of light to the mood of your journey. Today, the 2016 model has depreciated to just under $25,000 according to KBB. For something even older, check out this mighty E38 version.

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9 2015 Audi A8

The third and final contingent of the established German rivals is Audi’s esteemed and understated A8. The 2015 model year showcased a facelifted version of the third-generation model, which was first released back in 2011. The Audi A8 offers good value for money as a used buy, attracting a valuation of between $21,700-$28,990 according to Edmunds. This pricing represents a substantial saving over a 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Under the hood, the A8 is available with some great engine options. Entry-level models come with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 333 horsepower; but for those looking for even more power, a 520 horsepower twin-turbo V8 “S8” variant is also available. A 14-speaker Bose audio system comes as standard, while a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen setup could also be selected.

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8 2013 Bentley Flying Spur

Bentley introduced the imposing second-generation Flying Spur in 2013. The model was exceptionally comfortable and well-equipped, even boasting a hand-crafted cabin. With “Comfort Specification” coming as standard, every Flying Spur had front and rear seat massage and ventilation, front seat rolling nose adjustment, and front passenger seat movement controlled from the rear compartment.

Under the hood, Bentley had kitted the 2013 Flying Spur with a blissfully powerful 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12. The unit generated 616 horsepower and a whopping 590 pounds-feet of torque. As a result of all that power 0-60 mph took just 4.3 seconds, and the car could cruise up to an incredible 199 mph top speed. According to Edmunds, a 2013 example is currently worth between $37,079 to $49,637.

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7 2004 Maybach 57

Maybach is a brand synonymous with opulence. Despite being the oldest model on our list, the sheer levels of depreciation make it a worthy addition. According to Edmunds, a 2004 example is currently worth around $30-40,000 USD. Considering the original MSRP was $315,000, that is some serious depreciation. As you would expect, the interior of the Maybach 57 was top-of-the-line, with real wood inlays and generous lashings of leather. You could easily be forgiven for thinking you were in a private jet rather than a car.

Under the hood, a mighty 5.5-liter V12 produced a generous 543 horsepower. 0-60 mph was possible in just 4.9 seconds, a seriously impressive feat given the car’s hefty 6,017 lbs curb weight

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6 2018 Lexus LS 500

Lexus introduced an all-new version of its flagship LS sedan for the 2018 model year. According to Edmunds, the model currently attracts a list price of between $44,998 and $50,990. The fifth generation LS 500 was the largest and most powerful version of the model Lexus has ever built. With a 206.1-inch overall length and a 123-inch wheelbase, it was seriously imposing.

A 416 horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 was the default engine option, while a hybrid or LS 500h was also available. The economy-minded model generated 354 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6. The car’s seats were supremely comfortable, providing 28-way power adjustment and the ability to give a soothing massage.

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5 2017 Porsche Panamera

Porsche introduced an all-new second-generation Panamera for the 2017 model year. While the model cannot quite match the luxury the S-Class affords, if you are also desiring performance, the Panamera is a mighty alternative. Compared to the first-generation model, Porsche made some very successful styling tweaks. The car looks far sleeker and less awkward than its predecessor.

Under the hood, a 330 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 could be found in the base model. 0-60 mph was possible in just 5.4 seconds, but there were also more powerful Panamera engines available. For those looking to spend a little less money, the 2013 Porsche Panamera could be just the ticket.

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4 2010 Jaguar XJ

Jaguar released the fourth generation of its flagship XJ sedan in 2010. Also known as the X351, the model sported a far more muscular design than its predecessor. The car was visually imposing, with a large front grille and overall physical size. Composed entirely of aluminum, and with a brand-new interior design, the XJ was a big step up from its predecessor.

As well as the standard length car, the XJ was also available in an extended wheelbase XJL variant, affording rear-seat passengers 4.8 inches of additional legroom. The model has been a firm favorite with British Prime Ministers in recent years, with the armored XJ “Sentinel” the obvious choice. According to Edmunds, an early example of the X351 can be picked up for between $7,900-$14,999

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3 2013 Range Rover

The fourth generation of L405 Range Rover was released in 2013. The car’s styling was a fairly significant upgrade from its predecessors, and the changes were not limited to its aesthetics. Land Rover opted to build the Range Rover on an all-new platform. Rather than the steel used in the previous generation model, an all-aluminum monocoque body structure was used, reducing weight by an incredible 40% and improving fuel economy.

Unlike many SUVs on the market, the Range Rover is extremely capable off-road. There are very few cars that can take you off the beaten track in such luxury and refinement. The front seats are better than the armchairs found in most homes, with high levels of bolstering and an adjustable armrest. Despite a facelift in 2018, the L405 remained almost unchanged during its production run. Stick on a private license plate, and most people would struggle to know you were driving a 2013 model.

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2 2017 Volvo S90

Volvo revived the S90 nameplate for the 2017 model year and intended to compete with the established players in the luxury sedan market. 2017 examples are available from $16,789-$27,990 according to Edmunds. Volvo has long been praised for the quality of its interiors, with Swedish minimalism and ergonomic consideration. The S90 took refinement up a notch, with a centrally mounted 9.0-inch tablet-style touchscreen acting as an infotainment interface and removing clutter.

The car’s front seats featured 14-way power adjustment and were upholstered in sumptuous genuine leather. Real wood was also widely used, giving a chic Scandinavian feel. Many of the exterior styling features were shared with the XC90 SUV, including the signature Thor’s Hammer headlamp design.

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1 2017 Lincoln Continental

Following a production hiatus lasting 15 years, the Lincoln Continental was back with a bang for the 2017 model year. The all-new 10th-generation model sported a fairly radical redesign, and Lincoln hoped the Continental would benefit from this reinvigoration.

Three V6 engine options were on offer, with the 305 horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 the base option and a mighty 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 providing ultimate performance. Step inside, and the Continental is well-appointed, with high-quality genuine wood, knurled aluminum, and leather widely integrated. Used prices for the 2017 Continental range from $19,989-$35,589. Looking to the future, this HotCars exclusive render of the 2024 Lincoln Continental is pretty special.

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