I’ve owned 2 mid 80’s Mercedes. Bought one for $3200, sold it for $3400 and drove it 70K miles over a 4.5 year period. Repairs totaled $1700.
The other I bought 7-8 years ago for $7200. I’ve driven it 90K miles and have put 2.5 K in repairs. I estimate being able to sell it today for $5K. It was originally a $60K car and is VERY nice to drive.
I have a guy who birddogs them off dealers before they would go to auction. I was able to specify model options and price range.