Neither vehicle is a bad choice. Both appear to be in good condition and cared for. I like the idea of records for the '87.

The '87 is considerably faster than the '97 because of the turbo. The '87 probably has some issues if you found it to be "slow" because it's the fastest diesel every produced by M/B up until the most recent crop of CDI's.

Going against the wishes of the wife is never wise...........especially true if it's going to be her vehicle.

Neither engine is a good candidate for WVO conversions...........both of them can be primadonnas at times on regular old diesel fuel.