well honestly I didnt expect such a welcoming reply when I initially posted this out of frustration :-D
I guess I'm not the only one here who seems to think that there's a huge "price" to pay for the "personality" as was mentioned. But honestly, back in the 80's or even early 90's I would've understood this notion. but now with ample amount of luxury cars available, japanese in particular, I fail to comply with the statement that "personality" factor can only be found having a three point star on your hood. It can easily be found with four circles in your grill, taking the bavarian route, or to make life easy going the 'upscale toyota (lexus)' way.
I truly understand what Cap'n has to say about the reliability factor. I've got two 190's and a w124 but I dare not drive them farther than 50 miles from home. because I've been stuck with all three of them numerous times and had to tow them to the dealer. two of them are owned almost new with all histories available.
I would have to sadly conclude that the pre 90's benzes can more or less be categorized as a "mechanic's love" rather than a " personality booster" . Because when you have to stand on the side of the road with your suit on and trying to get under to hood to see what in the world made all that coolant drop on the road and why you see smoke out of your front hood. only to find out later that due to "design flaw" the neck of the radiator gave away... that situation just can't be categorized as the "price for personality" by anyone passing you by on the road or yourself as the moment