Well for me, 3k a month in "severe" conditions, and plenty of redline runs makes me feel a lot better with a good additive package in an oil that can go 6k between changes - I suppose if you're an easy driver and also change it every 3k, sure, you'll get 200k out of it. You also don't have a 722.6 trans, like I do - so pardon the trans fluid statement.

I can't imagine how it would behoove MB not to put the cheaper oils on the list, unless they had a reason not to. I presume someone will come from the sidelines and say MB is in bed with certain suppliers and are being paid to list certain ones. If you value your vehicle and want the maxiumum durability over a lifetime, why would you not go for the best additive package, one that can suspend the most debris for under the worst conditions?

I've spent $300 in unexpected repairs over the last 48k miles. I also burn zero oil between 5-6k mile change intervals, and as far as using shell gas since 100k, I'm on the original fuel pump and injectors......never a stumble.

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former: 83 300D, 97 C230, 93 400E

current: 08 C300 Luxury , 92 500SL