Newbie needs help
 

I'm looking to buy an older mercedes diesel to use as my daily driver for my 60 mile round trip to work. One of my co-workers recommended them (he drives an 85 300D) as they are reliable, get decent gas mileage, are a joy to own, and will last as long as I want it to.

Any recommendations on what model/year to look for?
Anything in patricular I should look out for when considering purchasing one (common problems, etc)?

I'm looking to spend $5-6k. Thanks in advance for your help.

Depends on what kind of ride you want and how much you like to work on your own vehicle. It seems for the money you want to spend you can get into a nice 300SD, 300SDL or something a little newer, maybe 300D. If you like to work on your car and you want a rock-solid 400,000 mile car go with the w126 300SD. There are a few more choices but this is my opinion.