I owned a 1973 220d. I sold it about 5 years ago. I regret selling it to this day.
Sure it was slow, but it was roommy on the inside.
The guy who purchased the car shipped it back to Germany. He restores them with rebuilt engines then resells them. He said there is a strong market for the old Diesels in Europe.
Since I purchased a 1975 230. I was looking for a diesel but ran across a super original owner 230, the Original paint still shines great.
My wife has a 1997 Passat diesel. 45 miles per gallon 0-60 in about 9 seconds. the engine is built by Audi and has won many awards. Still does not drive like a benz. My 75 230 is much smoother but slower.
I cannot see why people spend 15,000 on a new junk car when for half that they can buy a used Benz with many years service still on it.
The new car smell goes away and once you leave the lot it is not new anymore. I guess
its just to compete with the Jones next store.