Thanks for the replies.
yes insurance is hurting me already as I run two cars , however these are older Merc w124`s.
You have good taste. I want a W123 but have no need for a second car and have nowhere to store it.
Everyone on this forum will steer you towards VAG products, but what about older Fords, e.g. Sierra Sapphire Cosworth (have you seen Wheeler Dealers with Mike Brewer and Edd China?) or those grey import Nissan Sunnys with 4x4 & turbo 16V engines, ditto grey import Toyota MR2 turbos? I always admire these if I see them about. Should be ultra reliable and have big support on the forums, etc. The ECU code might be more accessible? I don't know.
Failing that, you can't go wrong with Golf, Jetta or Audi A4 1.8T.
TTQS