I'm probably qualified to comment on the subject: I have always done my own work. I owned a 220Sb in the 60's and a 230SL in the 70's. Now I have a W113 280SL and just bought a '95 E320 wagon. The older cars were simpler. As a result,when stuff went wrong, they are easy to repair. The newer cars ride nicer and have more power and lot's more gadgets: Do you really need 8-way adjustable seats powered by electric motors? Do you need a fully automatic climate control system? Do you need a "sound system" or would be a radio good enough? Do you need power windows and Airbags? An electric sunroof ? Isn't the purpose of a car to get you from here to there? My W113 has a manual soft top & manual windows. But let's look at it from the manufacturer's point of view: They can out-do the competition by offering a fully automated coffee maker built into the armrest and sell more cars because of that, or just get a glowing review in Car&Driver. The dealer doesn't mind and the repair show likes it too. And if you buy the car, you deserve it.