[QUOTE/ But then there was a patrician (and often just middle class) culture that bought the best it could afford, and then took care of whatever it was...Brooks Brothers suits that could last for 20 years, watches, furniture, houses, firearms and other sporting goods...which it was understood would someday be heirlooms.

The "cheap" KIA embodies more of this philosophy than the circuitry-packed and leather-lined $$$$$ Benz or BMW.[/QUOTE]

You are right. But, given the technology that is used in cars today, could Mercedes build one that is as reliable as a 123? I'm sure they could if they didn't use all of the latest technology. But going back to your original point, there isn't a market out there anymore for that. If there was, that's what Mercedes would be building. In fact, that really worries me because I wonder what in the world I will be driving in 20 years. There are only so many 123's left now.

Scott

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Scott
1982 Mercedes 240D, 4 speed, 275,000
1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S (70,000)
1987 Porsche 911 Coupe 109,000 (sold)
1998 Mercedes E300 TurboDiesel 147,000 (sold)
1985 Mercedes 300D 227,000 (totaled by inattentive driver with no insurance!)
1997 Mercedes E300 Diesel 236,000 (sold)
1995 Ducati 900SS (sold)
1987 VW Jetta GLI 157,000 (sold)
1986 Camaro 125,000 (sold - P.O.S.)
1977 Corvette L82 125,000 (sold)
1965 Pontiac GTO 15,000 restored (sold)