I know that feeling, Ben - I own and drive a 1984 190D 2.2, and although she's pretty banged up, I wouldn't trade her for the world. The state of California tries to coerce me to retire her every year come registration renewal time, but I always decline. I just can't bear the thought of that giant claw at the junkyard picking her up and smashing her to smithereens.
She's been so faithful and reliable and has seen me through some rough times; never failing to start and never breaking down. What is it, I wonder; about us Benz owners? I have noticed that we all seem to have an emotional attachment to our old Benz's - it is most curious.

I'm glad you decided to keep yours, Ben.

__________________
Baby Benz Sandra

"We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately." ... Benjamin Franklin

1984 190D 2.2 W201 Baby Benz:
290,000 miles and still going strong; my daily driver
Motorcars of the past:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 220D
1973 Porsche 914 2.0
1969 Volkswagen Bug (Bought it brand new in '69 - the list price back then: a mere $1799!!)