I would not consider a failed vacuum pump bearing indicitive of poor engineering. Infact, I believe that in the long-run, a properly maintained German car will outlast any Japanese car (though the Jap cars are less maint intensive for their life) and with more style; especiall a w123 with a 617 engine.

As you can see, a vacuum pump failure is neither common, or rountinely catastrophic to the engine on average. It seems to me that you just got a hint of bad luck.


By the way, how many miles are on your now broken MB?

ATLD