When you wrote..."If you can afford to keep that 308 then you don't need to be worrying about the upkeep cost of an old 123...." you made quite an assumption. Keeping a 308 running well and affording it are two very distinct issues. My 308 is definitely a labor of love...labor = overtime = less time with the wife = having to hear about not being home enough. Luckily my mechanic accepts credit cards.

If a 123 will be 1/2 as costly as the 308...I won't get one. I would not be able to afford it. With my wife quiting her full time job soon, I have to get all the 308 repairs out of the way NOW.

I want the 123 coupe because I want something different that I can drive anywhere. I am limited as to where I can take the 308...limited by my insurance company and just good sense. The 123 is a classy looking, yet somewhat affordable classic that I can hopefully take on lengthy trips throughout Florida, or just drive it to the golf course. I really enjoy the looks of the 2dr.

I was always told avoid Euros in the Ferrari market simply due to market value (Euros being less)...this maily comes from the Euros being de-tuned to meet US requirement. As far as MB, I was told to avoid Euros and diesels by the local MB Dealer...but there are more diesels and Euros out there than US gas versions.

There is a Euro 4cyl (1983) gas in the Miami area...$3200.00. Seller says "mint" with only 50K miles...1 owner (seller is a used car dealer who bought it from a Dr. ...surprised he did not say little old lady). Seller states he and other mechanics don't know the model since there are no markings on the car...I thought all 123s have the model number on the trunk...are Euros different.

Thanks to all who have and will respond...this information is very valuable to me as I try to enter the MB world.