For me the ultimate frankenbenz money car would be 4-spd 240TD wagon, like they've got in Europe. Figure $3-$4G for being a square window wagon, add another $1.5- $2k for being 4-spd 240D. But figuring out an electric pump for the hydraulic suspension would be the greatest obstacle.

Dunno what all this turbo-hype is about, i really dont. Acceleration just aint that important anymore. Everyday I pass V-8 powered automobiles that crawl down the road, humbled by their own inneficiency. Meanwhile either a car can go 80mph and get near 30mpg or it caint. But its the sheer simplicity of the 4 cyl diesel that appeals to me the most.