We'll see...

I really don't think any of the newer diesels, or gas cars, are going to experience any problems in the short term. In the short term, they could prove durable and everlasting. And most likely the engines will last as long as our 240D's. ONLY IF THE OWNER'S SERVICE THEM FREQUENTLY.

However, whoa to you who may buy these cars upon their eve of becoming classic status.

In other words, too many bits and pieces. Heck, if I had the money, and I had no interest in the way a machine works, I'd plunk down the $$$$$ for one in a heartbeat. I have to admit, there is no better looking car out there than the 211. Although, I will have to get used to it's "butt" over time.

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1987 300SDL (324000)

1986 Porsche 951 (944 Turbo) (166000)

1978 Porsche 924 (99000)

1996 Nissan Pathfinder R50 (201000)

"...GM/Isuzu (duramax) are in-line."

Actually, the Duramax Used in Chevies is a V8 as well

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Nick
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2002 Sprinter 2500 140" High Roof :

The specs of the MB engine dont look that impressive when you bring in Honda's latest in line 4 for the Accord, lighter as well as developing high output and superb torque curve with fantastic economy.

Why would MB take away the super reliable in line diesel is beyond my comprehension, all they needed to do was to tweak their plumbing to make them more emission friendly and economical.

The HINO commercial diesel engines from the 4009cc four to 12000cc eight cylinder are all in line affairs, no V in their configuration. All MB truck engines are in line till today.

The trend toward the V configuration may be a an adaptation for newer car styling. Shorter V engines fit better in the smaller modern engine compartment.

I'll take a straight six every time for simplicity and inherent balance.

It is easy for everyone to bark and complain about stuff they don't even know about. No one here knows the financial, reliability, engineering development factors involved in any of the changes M-B is implimenting on its new diesel engines. I'm sure that they not only know what they are doing, but also know that competition is fierce now and lackluster product doesn't cut it these days.

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1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 103K miles - garage queen
1988 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL, 89K miles - daily driver
2007 Hyundai Sonata Limited, 31K - daily driver

It makes one hope to think so. But I don't think moving the production of E and C class models to China is a great way to stimulate sales.

I know its a different topic, but not completely irrelevant.

Electronics die out. Japanese or German, they will all experience problems evantually with age.

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1987 300SDL (324000)

1986 Porsche 951 (944 Turbo) (166000)

1978 Porsche 924 (99000)

1996 Nissan Pathfinder R50 (201000)

The car has one idea I've always like and that's the VNT turbocharger (Variable Nozzle Turbine) that just about eliminates turbo lag. Only problem people have with them in the VW's is the average person that buys a VW doesn't work the turbo enough and will after a time find the control rod rusted and not able to open fully. We excerise the Jetta frequently and have never had a problem with the turbo.

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'10 Chrysler T&C Stow-N-Go White. Grandpa's ride.

'13 Chrysler 200 Touring Candy Red. Grandma's ride.

Age and cunning will always over come youth and vigor.