Due to age, have replaced three light bulbs and driver side headlight plastic frame.
I never dreamed the delight of owning a Mercedes. It is more than prestige, it is the driving experience with overall quality. I purchased for the diesel performance & this is becoming my favorite car since being to drive. Every conceivable detailed was engineered into the vehicle for reliability & performance. The MPG is more than reported. Accessories/parts seemed to easily accessible on-line & cost effective. If the experience continues, a new model will certainly be in the future.
Excellent choice, this body style is widely regarded as one of the best Mercedes ever built and I have seen many diesels run past 300,000 miles, just amazing! People like to put-down German cars as being expensive to own, etc. However, my experiences with my BMW and my old Mercedes have been excellent. If you steer clear of the S-Class and 7-Series, you will have a very reliable low-cost car. Just like you said, the maintenance is not bad at all and it is so worth it!