Well I have reasons for choosing the '83. With the 83 it's eligible for classic insurance. And just as important it's stick. From my understanding there aren't many if any 5 speed turbo diesels released here in the U.S. I want this to be my project car. I want to restore it get everything running optimally and reinforce/upgrade many engine components. I want to baby this car and learn how to work on it. This baby has some real potential and I want to exploit that potential. So I really don't care about future costs and what not. I'm getting the car relatively cheap I am new to diesel and I am new to Benz. I want a playground, a platform where I could learn and play and come to love my new diesel benz this bad boy is gonna sound like an 18 wheeler coming down the street and look impeccable while looking so. I just want to achieve the best possible sustainable performance while also preparing the car to extend it's longevity. I'm a big Benz fanboy and I am reaching out to you the community to help me understand what is possible to do in this classic =) I'll be looking into the SLS suspension that sounds interesting. and thanks for the info Icefire