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Originally Posted by deanyel
The parallel would be not a pre-nuptial but a physical for an uninsurable future spouse in questionalble health. But the point is this - a 10 or 20 year old MB is a DIYer's car - period - because it otherwise lacks economic viability. With parts prices what they are I think it's a close economic call even for DIYers. If you can't even inspect a car yourself how are you going to take care of it over the long term? There could be exceptions to this - newer, more valuable cars, classic cars, aspiring DIYers, etc.
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I agree about the DIY part, but disagree on the economic viablility.... parts for a w124 in my mind are still dirt cheap. Not from the dealer, but from the various on line parts outlets.
Here's one example alone--- i pay 24 dollars a year in property taxes on my car. A 30k car would be costing me 6-7 dollars a year... That's money for repairs and maintainance that i don't have to pay in property taxes, let alone insurance (i don't have collison or comp) and a car payment.
I guess a transmission re-build is the only job i couldn't handle myself, but who can? The engines are virtually indestructible for the first 200-225k. Suspension rubber is fairly easy, no electronics... i guess i could go on and on.. but then again we own two and that's the reason.
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1989 300ce 129k
( facelifted front,updated tail lights, lowered suspension,bilstein sports, lorinser front spoiler, MOMO steering wheel, remus exhaust,stainless steel brake lines). (Gone)
1997 s320 154k (what a ride). Sold with 179k miles. Replaced with Hyundai Equus
1994 e320 Cabriolet 108k
1972 280se 4.5 153k Owned for 12 yrs, sorry I sold it
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