I have the 1987 300SDL, bought specifically for Real Estate work.
It is a great car. Offers more of a perception of Quality than other stuff I could have bought in the price range.
That said, I probably would NOT count on it as my only means of transportation. And most of my driving will be within 20 miles of home.
I also have the pickup truck that cleans up pretty nice for backup.

If you are comfortable with your stated mechanical experience and willing to be proactive and maintain the car, avoiding crisis management of maintenance and repairs, you can probably have a car that won't leave you along the road.
But you surely will spend more "quality time" with it than you will with a newer Camry. High miles on the odometer yields more knucklebustin' opportunity, regardless of make of car.

__________________
Mike J
Cary, NC

1987 300SDL
203,400 miles
How NOT to buy a MB Diesel:
Know little or nothing about diesels or Mercedes Benz.
Get the WVO fever.
Drive 70 miles to a used car lot in the country.
Buy the car without having it inspected, because it seems like a good idea at the time....
I'll be back. I'm gonna need help.
I love this car already!


1998 F-150 154,000 miles

1994 Geo Tracker 75,000 Miles