Much easier to love than a Volvo 240D (gasser), which I've driven or ridden in for about 20 of the years from 76-present. Noticeably, they steer instead of plow. My Benz 240D is very much like the old volvo 144 we used to have- similar size & power. Of course you'll spend time under the hood, which is sensible and accessible, even compared to a volvo. As a mechanical engineer, I dig a car that will run with the battery disconnected (might start that way if your on a hill too!) It seems like an opportunity for father-son connection as well. You'll also appreciate a blower that you can remove without dissassembling the dash too.