If we are allowed a few mixes and matches . . . a light-colored (interior too) 1995 chassis (sedan or T-sedan) with all of the options (ASR, bun warmers, etc.) with a 1998-99 OM606 turbodiesel engine modified to use an OM603 IP and 722.3 transmission.

Yes, that's cheating, but it would be ideal for most everyone who has posted so far. It retains the looks and relative simplicity of the W124 while adding the power, torque, and high-altitude performance of the turbocharged engine.

If that is not allowed then the choice would be between a 1987 300TD, a 1993 300D-2.5, and a 1995 E300D.

Jeremy

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"Buster" in the '95

Our all-Diesel family
1996 E300D (W210) . .338,000 miles Wife's car
2005 E320 CDI . . 113,000 miles My car
Santa Rosa population 176,762 (2022)
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . 627,762
"Oh lord won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz."
-- Janis Joplin, October 1, 1970