A lot of insightful comments.....but none that have given me what I was looking for: A reason to rationalize owning three Benz's, and especially that gorgeous money pit called a W140 500SEL. LOL...just kidding, I love having all three of them. My particular 500 is a thoroughbred put out to pasture, and once I have it fully (ok, perhaps 90%) showroom it will remain there for a long time. Garaged, in the arid SW, 3-5k miles a year.....it will be an example of MB engineering excellence and marketing...well, let's say less than excellence, for a long time to come. Actually, I do believe it will become the equivlent of what the 126 is today. That car, in nicely maintained condition, is still a stately presence on the road, and is admired by anyone who relishes fine MB's.

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1996 SL320 97K miles
1996 C220 130k miles
1992 500SEL 170k miles <---sold
1986 300E 216k miles <---sold