Probably more plastic parts, less quality, less craftsmanship, more like an Asian car. Basically, everything Mercedes is not supposed to be. My SD probably has more standard features even at 30 years old.

I always believed that a new Mercedes is something only the wealthy could obtain. If you were not wealthy but wanted a classy car, you bought a used Mercedes. Part of the reason the re-sale value of a Mercedes goes down so fast is because the wealthy elite have $80K to spend on a new car. Why would they buy a used car? The people buying the used Mercedes are not willing to pay anywhere near what a new one costs. People somewhere in the middle go for a BMW or Lexus, etc.

__________________
1991 F250 super-cab 7.3 IDI. (rebuilt by me) Banks Sidewinder turbo, hydroboost brakes, new IP and injectors.
2003 S430 - 107K
1983 300SD - Tanoshii - mostly restored ~400K+.
1983 300SD - Good interior. Engine finally tamed ~250K.
Monark Nozzle Install Video - http://tinyurl.com/ptd2tge