"My goal in getting a nice used 300E was overall cheaper cost-of-ownership (cradle to grave) than a new Toyota Camry."

YOUR cost may be low, but 'cradle-to-grave' does not apply to your Benz, since you didn't buy new. Had you, it would have been much more expensive, considering double the price new. Likewise - even with the depreciation difference - a viable comparison would have been buying a USED Camry vs. the Benz.

My guess is you felt you would be happier with a used Benz than any Toyota, regardless of cost, and that makes any other comparison just a rationalization. Buying used introduces so many variables, you just can't predict what expenses you will face. Still, statistics would be on your side it you chose the Toyota.

You want a cheap-to-own car that is fun to drive? I bought my '88 Integra new for $11k. Twincam 24V, 6500 rpm at peak power, 4-whl disks, programmed port injection, decent ride, and could handle circles around our 190E - and just as roomy inside with a better driving position. Full manual everything, but that much more reliable. I had 1 breakdown in 186k miles, and even towing on that was covered by recall warranty. No non-maintenance repairs except rodding the radiator. I would still be tooling around in it except for some 16yr old dingleberry in his dad's SUV and cellphone plastered on his ear and the attention span.... well, of a dingleberry. I guess my trunk was as good a brake as anything he could find.

I really enjoy our 190E when I get to drive it. It rides great, is quiet, has a pleasant 'throat' to the exhaust, and handles decently. But someday I may tire of the tinkering, and how well will the charm wear?

Steve

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'91 MB 190E 2.3
'08 RAV4 Ltd 3.5
'83 Lazy Daze m'home 5.7