I was reading this thread this morning, smiling, because I thought I was the only one. I live in a pretty rural town in eastern North Carolina. My only neighbors are 1/4 to 1/2 mile away (within rifle range) and our house is surrounded by tobacco and soybean fields. We bought our house a year ago out of sheer luck. Its an 1860s farm house completely restored/renovated, on 2 acres for a song (divorce/almost repo). I drive a 81 300D and an 85 Toyota 4Runner, and my wife has a Toyota Highlander. The local farmers around here act really goofy towards me and my car, dirty looks, comments, weird stuff. I heard the comment "there goes rich boy" when I was leaving the store one day. The guys at work act funny too. What they dont realize is: I paid 1000.00 for this car. I sold a Subaru WRX I was paying 375.00 per month plus outrageous insurance, and bought her with my income tax return last year. My car has paid for itself, and due to having it, my wife and I can afford to make our house payment. All of those farmers drive newer pickups, and Ford tractors, and probably bust thier humps to make payments.

Now heres the best part. On New years Eve, I slipped in some spilled beer and fell down a flight of stairs at a restaurant. I broke both of my hands, and my left arm. I have been at home since, not working. My long term disability insurance pays some, but the extra money just isnt there right now. Our 300D has saved the day, by just running on a regular basis, and not costing me anything but diesel, oilchanges, and 88.00 a month for FULL coverage with no deductable. They can give me all the dirty looks they want, but if mainstream America really knew how good and affordable these cars are, you wouldnt be able to find one in a junkyard.

This is my second 300D, my third Turbodiesel car, and Im not looking back to a gasser anytime soon.

-Ob
1981 300D "Melba"
1985 4Runner "Billygoat"