Well I did it... I got a VERY nice 1985 300D TurboDiesel.

Thanks to everyone's advice here! In the end, I was smart and made a good decision. Instead of going with a cheaper car that needed a bunch of work I waited for the "needle in the haystack" and paid just a little more. I have looked at and drove so many of these things now, I cannot even remember them all. I picked this one up for $3,300.

I found a beautiful original with all the records and it needs very little by comparison to most of the others I have seen. The paint is perfect, not a speck of rust or is it starting to rust anywhere. The ONLY thing on the car that does not work is the Cruise Control. There are a few minor things that need fixing on the interior. Like the wood trim around the window switches and the drivers seat springs need the swim noodle mod or something.

I started to get discouraged at the end and started looking at other models. But, I'm a happy camper now.

Now, I'm even thinking of selling my truck and picking up a wagon!

Again.... Many thanks!!

Here is a couple pics, I'll put up a few more when I pick it up next week: