Quick update on this one. Snow storms and other events have precluded me from having a look and test drive, but I did manage to speak with the indie mechanic (mostly do european cars, but rarely MB) who was open and helpful about work done in recent months. Bunch of stuff to pass safety inspection etc. According to him, the body on the car is outstanding (no rust) and the interior is very clean. Engine compartment is clean too. Was not asked for and did not do compression test or other engine health checks. Replaced transmission oil filter etc. The couple of things he had noted needing work are:
1) transmission cooling lines leaking at rad
2) vacuum pipe at fuel pressure regulator is bad (was reinserted but will likely need replacement).
Other than that, the car should be good.

I'm still debating on whether this is the best all-around car I need, to complement my garage queen 1982 240D. Part of me thinks I should go for a less maintenance-needing Japanese car (Camry), or more modern car (CRV).

Thoughts?

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1983 300TD 240K - 1982 240D 215K - 1996 Dodge Cummins 70K