I'm having an polite argument with a buddy of mine. We're planning a roadtrip to vegas next week and can't decide which car would be best:

1982 300td
2005 c230K
His honda civic.

I feel, and I suspect that most of you feel the same way, that the 300td would be most comfortable for the 5 hour drive from San Diego to Las Vegas. However, fuel economy, diesel prices, a pass over the mountains, speed, finicky cruise control, lesser radio, and lack of cupholders, have me second guessing taking the 300td.

The C offers better A/C, radio, cruise control, fuel economy and is considerably faster. I worry about traffic tickets. It's superior A/C will be slightly offset by the black interior and lack of window tint. It's a comfortable car for long drives, just not as smooth and soft on the freeway.

To be fair, my buddy offerred to drive his civic. I told him no cause his seats are too uncomfortable. I hate that car to tell you the truth.

Any non-biased advice out there?

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1982 240 D, 308,000 - 321,127 miles (sold)
1982 300 TD,166,500 - 226,000 miles
1998 E 320, 120,000 - 144,000 miles
2005 C 230 K, 26,000 - 77,000 miles (sold)