2000 Large Luxury Sedan Comparison: Full Photo Gallery

Wouter Smit · 2026-05-16

If you're shopping for a premium used sedan from the turn of the millennium, you've probably wondered how the big names stack up. Back in 2000, the battle for luxury supremacy was fierce, with automakers throwing everything they had into creating the ultimate driving experience. We're taking a close look at five heavy hitters: the Jaguar Vanden Plas, Mercedes-Benz S430, Audi A8 4.2 Quattro, Lexus LS400, and BMW 740iL. This isn't just about specs on paper—it's about what you see and feel when you walk around these cars. ### The Contenders: A Quick Overview Each of these sedans brought something unique to the table. The Jaguar Vanden Plas was all about old-world charm, with wood trim and leather that felt like a gentleman's club on wheels. The Mercedes-Benz S430 offered bulletproof engineering and a commanding presence. Audi's A8 4.2 Quattro pushed boundaries with its aluminum body and all-wheel drive, a rarity in this class. Lexus's LS400 was the quiet achiever, known for whisper-quiet cabins and incredible reliability. And the BMW 740iL? It was the driver's choice, blending sporty handling with luxury. - **Jaguar Vanden Plas**: Handcrafted details, smooth V8, but dated electronics. - **Mercedes-Benz S430**: Solid build, advanced safety features, and a V8 that pulls hard. - **Audi A8 4.2 Quattro**: Lightweight aluminum frame, excellent grip, and a spacious interior. - **Lexus LS400**: Legendary reliability, silent ride, and buttery V8. - **BMW 740iL**: Rear-wheel drive dynamics, inline-six smoothness, and timeless styling. ### Exterior Impressions: Design That Defined an Era Walking around these cars, you see how each brand stamped its personality on the sheet metal. The Jaguar's long hood and graceful curves scream elegance, while the Mercedes-Benz S430 stands tall with a boxy, confident stance. The Audi A8 is more understated, almost minimalist, but its aluminum body gives it a sleek, modern profile. The Lexus LS400 looks conservative but refined, like a tailored suit. And the BMW 740iL has that classic kidney grille and a sporty silhouette that still turns heads today. ### Interior Luxury: Where You Spend Your Time Inside, these cars were designed to pamper. The Jaguar Vanden Plas wraps you in Connolly leather and burl walnut, though the switchgear can feel a bit flimsy. The S430's cabin is more functional, with clear gauges and solid materials that hold up well over time. Audi's A8 offers a clean, driver-focused layout with soft-touch surfaces. The LS400 is famously quiet, with seats that feel like recliners after a long drive. And the BMW 740iL strikes a balance between sport and luxury, with supportive seats and intuitive controls. > "The Lexus LS400 was so quiet at 70 miles per hour that you could hear a pin drop. That's the kind of refinement that made it a benchmark." ### Practical Considerations for Buyers If you're considering one of these sedans today, keep a few things in mind. Parts availability varies—Jaguar and BMW parts can be pricey, while Lexus and Mercedes have robust aftermarket support. Fuel economy isn't great; expect around 15-20 miles per gallon in mixed driving. Maintenance costs can add up, especially for the Audi's all-wheel-drive system and the Mercedes' air suspension. But if you value character and presence, these cars deliver in spades. ### Final Thoughts Looking at these photos, you can appreciate how each car represents a different philosophy. The Jaguar is for the romantic, the Mercedes for the pragmatist, the Audi for the tech enthusiast, the Lexus for the comfort seeker, and the BMW for the driving purist. No matter which one catches your eye, you're getting a piece of automotive history that still feels special today.