I have a Mercedes because it burns #2 fuel oil and doesn't have an aluminum cylinder head or a timing chain (otherwise, I'd probably be driving a VW). I will admit that, since having gotten the car, I've come to really appreciate the amount of work and thoughtfulness that went into the 123 design. This car is probably the easiest-to-work-on vehicle I've ever owned. I have no intention of getting rid of this car anytime soon, and unless I hold onto this car for the rest of my life I'll probably always have a diesel Benz somewhere.
I just wish I could get cloth seats...