This sounds like the car from Ammityville - I think I'll pass. But I thnk you're basically on to something - a used Mercedes like that is best owned by a DIYer. If you're just looking for transportation and not at all interested in working on the thing you're better off with a new car - any new car. It's not just the labor cost but the fact that most shops charge absurd prices for the parts. But on the other hand if you enjoy working on it, buy parts mail order, it can be both economical transportation and a source of enjoyment. Some of us are more likely to get annoyed at a new car - the darn things provide nothing to tinker with.