I must get my gwagen plug in here. Early 80s 280GE or even 230GE are good choices for new drivers. They are slow and built like a tank. They sit up giving an excellent view and yet they are very difficult to tip. Typical MB reliability is standard. Very unique in this day of SUVs. The virtues I like are the visibility and supreme crashworthiness. Good ones can be had for 10-15k. Maybe too much for a teen but an alternative.

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90 300GE 5sp
95 740iL