I beleive that one of the reasons that MB doesn't change some things is that they were researched well to begin with, and weren't there for simply stylistic reasons.

To whit the location of the ignition lock. This has been in the same relative position on MB automobiles since at least the 50s -- it appears to be the ideal location for ease of use and avoiding hand injuries in accidents (that is also why the top of the key is plastic, by the way, with no metal in it -- saves brocken hands and wrists in collisions). It's there for a reason, not by whim. Notice that the ignition switch isn't lighted on new models, either -- no need, it's right where your hand ends up when you reach for the dash anyway! Same place on every car....

Ditto for instruments -- they are designed for the best readability and ease of use, not for style, so the dash hasn't changed since the W108 chassis in any major way -- speedo largest and in the center or to the right, guages and clock smaller with the temp, fuel gauge, and oil pressure on the left. Clock at center or lower right. Easiest to read, the guages are always in the same place, no matter which model, logical thinking. These are really driver's cars, by and large, and good drivers appreciate this.

__________________
1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!