I think that the moderator should close and delete this posting.
Too many people seems to be upset and start getting personal, acting like a small kids on a playground. Both cars (VW and MB) are so far apart from each other that I don't see a point of this discussion. A lot of guys here driving year 2000 + VW Diesels and comparing them to a 1979 - 1987 Mercedes diesels???? Guys if you are honest can you compare the first generation Rabbit Diesel with ANY MB Diesel??? If you want level playing field how about 2009 Passat VS 2009 E320 CDI.....any takers???
Come on grow up.