John,

Since there are no 202 diesels in the US, maybe I can sneak this comment through here in the Diesel forum without getting anyone upset.

I feel that the 202 is one of the least solid and Mercedes like of all the modern (114/115 to present) MB's. But, even so, it still has the solidity to be an MB.

I understand your thoughts about the switches. The pushbutton switches of the 123 and 124 cars did have a soft but solid feel to them that you don't have in some of the newer cars. But, more importantly to me is the feel of the steering wheel and its response while driving fast on a winding and hilly road. Even a rough road brings the "Mercedes" out of a car. It's this behind the wheel experience that I really believe would bring you to respect the 210 car. In fact, I would challenge you to drive a 210 in good condition on some good, fun, winding roads for a few thousand miles and then go back to a 123 or 124 car. I would bet that at that point you would want to throw rocks at the earlier cars.

Enjoying the discussion.

Have a great day,