The problem with the 300D IMHO is that it is harder to work on. Added to that is the fact that if you get a non turbo one, you get the theoretical added 25% torque, but since they all have automatics, you give that added torque back to the automatic.

There are those who will tell you how much greater the five cylinder is because of increased power(for which I already explained my position) and the added accessories such as climate control, power windows, power sunroof, yada, yada, yada....

To me all those doodads are things that, when broken, are a severe pain in the backside. Simple things like replacing a starter is extremely easy on the four cylinder but a serious PITA on the five.

If you want all the doodads, be willing to pay dearly in frustration involved in keeping them all workingl.

Personally I would take one 240D manual in fair condition over two normally aspirated 300D's that are mint.

My $0.02,