I wanted a diesel car. After killing a VW diesel literally the same day that I got it home (damned infernal timing belt), I wanted a GOOD one. While that cherry cheap MB diesel has largely eluded me, I'm hooked. I love how they feel. I now have an awesome conversation piece in the driveway, and an ugly beater to pound into the ground with my commute. I'm happy.

One thing I've noticed, I do miss seeing the hood ornament when I've parked the MB's for one reason or another.

If I wanted prestige, I would've bought newer, fancier, nicer, and more expensive MB's.