1996 Mercedes-benz S 500
WDBGA51E5TA311908

Last known mileage — 165 316 mi. This page includes photos, sale history, market estimate and similar MERCEDES-BENZ S listings.

Analysis report

This 1996 Mercedes-Benz S-Class features a documented history of 39 service records across two owners, including extensive maintenance performed at specialized facilities like Fletcher Jones Motorcars and various locations in Florida. While the vehicle was well-maintained with frequent oil changes and component replacements, it carries a branded salvage title following a reported total loss and structural damage assessment in Maryland. The report also notes an earlier accident inspection for left rear damage in 2003. Reviewing the full report is essential before buying, bidding on, or financing this vehicle to understand the specific impact of the salvage status and past incident history on its current value.

Characteristics

Seller Reserve Price
VIN WDBGA51E5TA311908
Auction IAAI
Mileage 165,316 mi 266,050 km
Auction Date (UTC) 08/05/2026 13:30
Engine 5.0l V8 Fi F
Color Black
Body Sedan 4 Door
Transmission Automatic
Fuel Gasoline
Key Keys Present
Cost of repair $ 0 USD
Market value $ 8 489 USD
Primary damage Front End

Trade history

Sales history unknown

Exterior condition

1 damage · 1 zone
Damage map
1
1 Front
Primary damage: Front End
AI Analysis
Get an opinion: ChatGPT Google AI
Expert Conclusion 8/10
Repair Complexity: Low
Risk of Hidden Damage: Low

The primary damage listed is 'Front End', but visual evidence suggests this might be minor cosmetic impact or a non-structural hit. However, given the age of the vehicle, any front-end work should be checked for radiator integrity and cooling system leaks.

Advantages
Insurance Seller: State Farm is a reputable source, suggesting the vehicle has been processed through standard insurance protocols.
High-Value Engine: The 5.0L V8 engine is highly desirable for this model (W140 chassis).
Clean Interior: Cabin appears well-maintained with no visible debris or heavy wear.
Disadvantages
High Mileage: Over 165,000 miles requires a thorough mechanical inspection of the transmission and cooling system.
Age Factor: As an older luxury vehicle, rubber components and electrical systems may require attention regardless of exterior condition.
Good for Parts

This is a high-potential investment for an enthusiast. The 'Insurance' status provides confidence in the title and documentation. While mileage is high, the W140 chassis with a V8 engine holds significant value if mechanically sound. Caution: Verify cooling system integrity due to front-end classification.

Airbags: Not Visible Glass: Intact
Damage
Moderate Front Bumper — The front bumper shows signs of minor impact/scuffing on the passenger side, but appears mostly intact structurally.
Minor Hood / Front End Structure — Exterior hood and front fascia appear straight; no major deformation visible from exterior angles.
Minor Interior/Dashboard — Interior appears clean with no obvious signs of impact damage or deployment in the provided photos.
Generated by Artificial Intelligence for reference
VIN Decoder WDBGA51E5TA311908
Airbag Location Front 1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Airbag Location Knee 1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Body Class Sedan/Saloon
Displacement (L) 5
Displacement C C 5000
Displacement C I 305.1187204736
Doors 4
Engine Configuration V-Shaped
Engine Cylinders 8
Engine H P 315
Engine Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Fuel Type Gasoline
G V W R Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
G V W R_to Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Make MERCEDES-BENZ
Manufacturer MERCEDES-BENZ CARS
Model S-Class
Model Year 1996
Other Restraint System Info Type-2 Belt with ETR: Emergency Tensioning Retractors for Driver and Passenger. Rear Belts: Type-2 Belts with a lap belt in the center seat. (Line: 202)
Plant City SINDELFINGEN
Plant Country GERMANY
Plant State BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG
Seat Belts All Manual
Trim S500 140
V I N WDBGA51E5TA311908
Vehicle Descriptor WDBGA51E*TA
Vehicle Type PASSENGER CAR
Vehicle Valuation (USA) WDBGA51E5TA311908
At Recycler No
Auction Announcement Within45 Days No
Colors
Green, Beige, Gold, Brown, Burgundy, Yellow, Gray, White, Pink, Black, Blue, Red, Orange, Silver, Purple
Display Name Mercedes-Benz
Display Name S 500 Sedan 4D
Display Name 1996
Display Name S-Class
Drivetrains RWD
Engines V8, 5.0 Liter
Flood Damage No
Frame Damage No
Government Use No
Has Accidents No
Insurance Owned No
Livery Use No
Miles 110000
Not Actual Mileage No
Options
Slip Control, ABS (4-Wheel), Air Conditioning, Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Cruise Control, Power Steering, Telescoping Wheel, AM/FM Stereo, Cassette, CD/MP3 (Single Disc), CD/MP3 (Multi Disc), Bose Premium Sound, Dual Air Bags, Dual Power Seats, Leather, Moon Roof, Alloy Wheels, Premium Wheels
Original Owner No
Police Use No
Previously Canadian No
Report Date 2026-07-30
Salvage No
Taxi Use No
Title Brand No
Transmissions Automatic
Used As Rental No
Vehicle Data WDBGA51E5TA311908
Vehicle
Make Mercedes-Benz
Model S Class
Year 1996
Country US
4dr Sedan 5.0L
Name 4dr Sedan 5.0L
Body style 4dr Car
Drivetrain Rear Wheel Drive
Doors 4
MSRP $87,500
Invoice $76,120
Supply & Demand (USA) WDBGA51E5TA311908
Vehicle
Make Mercedes-Benz
Model S-Class
Year 1996
Market Overview
Ingest date 2026-07-27
Listings (90d)
Sold 4
Active listings 4
Final price calculator Estimated value
Estimated value Current bid ($0)
1 Lot price
2 Auction fees
3 Trucking to port
$320
4
5 Service fee (~)
~$554
1 4 Subtotal

Selects the nearest US port based on vehicle location.

Customs clearance
1 4 Customs value
6
7
8 Customs agency
6 8 Total customs payments
1 8 Total customs payments
tune Additional services
Additional services
9
$0
10
$0
11
$0
12
$0

Checking a box adds the amount to the estimated total.

For informational purposes only.

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