So, basically, I'd have to spend over $40k to enjoy the same maintenance free service I should plan to get out of the car I already have. The 140 is updated and full of interior gadgets, but I don't see a dramatic improvement... maybe its just me (I kind of like springy seats, a huge steering wheel, and a transmission shift that can spill your coffee)

Financial Discussion:

I first test drove a 140 5 years and 2 W126's ago, back when I figured it would be the next car I would buy, and assumed I should be able to afford one. Boy was I wrong: I bought a 10 year old, near mint 420SEL with 120k in 1997 for $9000, the car listed for $53,050 new, which translates to paying 17% of MSRP. The car was one generation old.

vs.:

Its almost 2002 - so a 1992 400SE, with approximately 120k miles, which listed on the lot 10 years ago for $77,900 should be $13,243 assuming the same devaluation. ($77,900 x 17% = $13,243) The car is, like in the above example, one generation old. I have yet to find one less than $18,000 - and that gets you a real "rat" of a car; one which will undoubtedly require major work in the forseeable future.

Has anyone else considered this analysis before?

__________________
2003 S500 Black/Charcoal
1990 560SEL 61k Arctic White/Grey

SOLD:
1988 420SEL Black/Palomino Sold @ 85k
1987 420SEL Midnight Blue/Grey
1986 420SEL Diamond Blue/Grey
1983 380SEL Champagne/Palomino