Originally Posted by Skid Row Joe

For some of us, diesel-engined MBs are a way of life in our transportation needs. I began driving the 'diesel' exclusively in 1991. My folks started driving MB diesel cars in the 1960s when driving a diesel was anything but cool - but driving a Mercedes-Benz was way up there in cachet. For me, it made more dollars and cents versus especially the American-made cr#p, or other gashogs available that were also known for their dismal reliability and longevity.

As far as them (MB diesels) being a bargain leasing or buying new? The value just isn't there - unless perhaps you're going to drive it a bunch of miles, keeping it 10 to 20 years. Leasing never makes sense, FWIW. My last MB diesel bought 14 years ago new, was the first and last time I'll ever buy new. They're such a value/bargain buying used, that to me is the only way to go. Don't be afraid of a clean, one-owner MB diesel with 50K to 60K miles on it, several years old - if, you are looking for maximum value from one. Just my .02.