I think the 'economic sense' comes into play when you have not made a car payment for almost two years, have a car with 239,125 miles and still drives and looks better than 95% of the cars on the road. It does require a lot thoughtful maintenance and almost becomes a hobby. The wagon always gets me and and the kids home everyday thanks to guys like you who share their experiences and opinions.

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dtf
1994 E320 Wagon (Died @ 308,669 miles)
1995 E300 Diesel (228,000)
1999 E300 Turbodiesel ( died @ 255,000)
2006 Toyota Tundra SR5 AC 4X4 (115,000 miles) rusted frame - sold to chop shop
2011 Audi A4 Avant (165,000 miles) Seized engine - donated to Salvation Army
BMW 330 xi 6 speed manual (175,034 miles)
2014 E350 4Matic Wagon 128,000 miles
2018 Dodge Ram 21,000 miles