When I look at the 3 wheeled cart that ushered in the Mercedes Benz automobile, I think of the years of innovation and quality poured into this car. I drive an older 300E quite frankly because I like the body style, especially the grill, and the back view of the car. I also chose the 300E because of the simplicity of the 3.0 inline six, and the large amount of room in the engine compartment to work on the car. I like the spartan interior and sporty gauges. I really do not like the design of the E320 despite it being newer. I also must confess that the challenge of getting more performance out of the 3.0 (dual turbos) is an attraction.
As far as prestige, I try to follow in the spirit of the renaissance
man. To be a connoisseur of the beautiful, and that which boldly states quality. The MB does not make the man, the MB compliments the man. For me, I must be well read, well educated (formally and informally), follow the gentleman ideal, be physically fit, and have integrity. This takes time and commitment, but prestige comes from knowing I follow my personal code to the best of my ability. The MB compliments my life well.

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Robert Davis