@fruitcakesa - Some really good points there; I have some rust on my panzer wagon and although it saddens me a little I don't mind it because I know it's not a collector. =) I remember when I got my license I drove my VW everywhere and then some; I still drive just to drive and I am 99% of the time the designated driver for my less responsible friends. ;')

Would you spend $10k on a used Mercedes diesel in great condition (but not show condition) for a daily driver? Sounds like you wouldn't, that is 5x more than you spent on your daughters daily driver!

I am waiting for some people to join the discussion that drive $40-$90k cars as daily drivers. =P

@Oldwolf - You are satisfied then with a sub $10k daily driver? Would $10k+ for a daily be worth it to you?