Rhett

Hi all,<br>
<br>
I'm very new to Mercedes, but due to rising gas prices, and the fact that I'm entering college this fall, I'm parting with my International SII, and looking into getting a car. I'm really hot ont he idea of a 190D. This is mostly for the mileage reasons, since diesel is cheaper than regular unleaded in most cases, and renders better econemy from what I hear. I do not know what year model I want, but I've been looking around, seeing all of them up to about 1989's fairly cheap, as in under $7,000. I'm looking to spend between $6,000 and $7,000 max. Is this realistic to obtain one that runs well, needs no work, and has a reasonable mileage reading? Also, is the 190D a good model to own? Are they reliable, and how expensive are they to maintain in relation to a Japanese or American car? About how long do the engines usually last before needing overhaull, and is the four cylinder the better option, or the five? One more thing...how sluggish are they with an auto transmission? Thanks to anyone who helps out this newby here. <br>
<br>
Thank you,<br>
Rhett