Maybe I'm the goofball here, but I budget $100 per year per auto, outside of fluids and filters, doing my own work. Don't think diesel is the issue (although you'll save a lot of money after you convince yourself that clean fuel is the trick). Most autos will last a long time with regular fluid and hose changes, and lubricating anything that moves. Looking for loose stuff while lubing is the trick for me. Other autos are a 1991 Mazda 626 and 1985 GMC pickup. The pickup is on its second battery, and is the lowest cost of the three for maintenance. daBenz is the lowest cost on fuel, and lowest overall cost.

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daBenz - 1970 220D