Yea I like the longer wheel bases then the shorter ones. I like big cruisers like the caprice w/o the donk wheels. But I bet the merc has more power than the 305 at least. I live in AZ so rust shouldn't be a huge problem but I will look. I can get good prices on parts for the mercs but I just don't know! I've got a few months before I buy anything so it will give me time to make a decision. Plus I am not having the best of luck finding the first gen I want 5 speed w/ 4x4 so I may get a merc if I have no luck.