One major difference in American passenger car Diesels is that they were converted from some base gasoline engine. If this were a smart thing to do, MB would have figured it out in 70 years. OTOH, VW IDI Diesels are based on gasoline engines but are much more durable and reliable than the GM 350 Diesel or the 4-banger in the Chevette. Not sure about the TDIs.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL