I can't really say I've experienced a 3.5L turbodiesel myself, but from all I read about the problems owners have with the engines, I'd STAY AWAY from them! Apparently they're notorious for bending rods. And that's just for starts...the valvetrain just can't withstand the extra "power" coming from the 3.5L engine as opposed to the 3.0L.

I CAN however, say I highly recommend the 300sd's based on pure GREAT experiences! They're amazing cars. They handle like a smaller car, yet are so roomy. The engines are slightly sluggish, but if you enjoy modifications, you can easily tweak up the boost to satisfy your needs and make up for the sluggishness. If not, they're still wonderful cars and will probably outlast you (no offense if you have a terminal disease or something...).

I don't know much about any 2.5L diesel. 240d's are completely wonderful, but I only like the older ones that look "classy" as opposed to the ones that Mercedes started to modernize a little with plastic headlight bezels and toned down curves.

Good luck. You can EASILY find a Benz cheap as hell. It may need a little work, but you'll love it that much more when you get it going, especially if you do the work yourself. I've found more than a couple that have been kept in barns for years and just needed a little tlc.

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1974 240d "Peace, Love and Empathy" - Kurt Cobain
1982 300sd "It all depends upon the Benz!" - Me
1983 300sd
1985 500sel
1992 300se