FWIW, even if I fix the blown headgasket, there are other things that would go wrong with it, that would end up costing (over time) as much as a newer car.

I don't know what to do man.. everyone has an opinion, but I'm looking for facts. What model will last the longest but still retain that charisma you get when you pull up to a client in a Benz..? In my opinion, a '95 c230 wouldn't get my rocks off if I were the client.