The recommendation to "drive it hard" doesn't mean "continuously". That means to take it out from time to time and give it a good thrash. ANY engine needs to be driven hard from time to time to promote even cylinder wear, break down any varnish, and burn out any carbon deposits.

Driving like an A-hole all the time is just wasteful and destructive to your car's drivetrain.

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Current stable:
1995 E320 157K (Nancy)
1983 500SL 125K (SLoL)

Gone but not forgotten:
1986 300SDL (RIP)
1991 350SD
1991 560SEL
1990 560SEL
1986 500SEL Euro (Rusted to nothing at 47K!)

Gone and wanting to forget:
1985 524TD 167K (TotalDumpster™) [Definitely NOT a Benz]