Bob is right an early 80's 123 or 126 diesel are the best cars. Probably since you like it a little sportier the 123 is right. Mid-80's mercedes diesels just don't have a good rep. I am surprised that one has lasted 300K.

With the crap detroit puts out these days I am thinking about a Japanese car since my wife seems pretty dead set against a Euro car. I think if you are looking for a conventional car it is pretty hard to go wrong with a Toyota or if you want to pay more for a nicer Toyota buy a Lexus. An occasional expensive repair is better than a money siphon.