If you’re a fan of wagons, you likely are already familiar with the W124-chassis Mercedes-Benz longroof. The E-Class wagon variant of this vintage is sought after not only for its reliability, but also its immense practicality thanks to a rear-facing third row seat. The only real drawback to the car – if you can even call it that – is the standard automatic and limited engine choices in the U.S. This 1995 E250 wagon solves both of those problems, as it’s a gray market car equipped with a five-speed manual and diesel powertrain. Find it here on eBay with bids to just over $4,000 and the reserve unmet.

Mercedes wagons represent a great compromise compared to a modern SUV or CUV, which is likely why it remains one of the few manufacturers still offering an estate-bodied car in the U.S. The modern E-Class wagon is quite expensive, however, so despite seeming like a bigger lift to import a gray market car like this, it actually may be cheaper in the long run – and you get the desirability of the row-it-yourself option never offered in a Mercedes wagon sold in the U.S. Throw in the indestructable OM605 D25 diesel engine and it begins to make even more sense, especially if this one is as rust-free as the seller claims.

Mercedes did offer a manual option in the W124 chassis E-Class, but to call it scarce is an understatement. European shoppers weren’t nearly as opposed to having three pedals at their disposal as Americans tend to be, which is why cars like this exist. The seller claims this example escapes the typical fate of a North American market car that has been subjected to the rigors of multiple generations of ownership, ultimately passed down to the kids when they go to college and incur all manners of cosmetic faults and accidents leading to body panels full of bondo. Not here – this car was supposedly kept in a heated garage since new, and the mileage is actually relatively low for a diesel-equipped model.

The E250 shows 169K original miles, and despite the seller’s claims, it doesn’t present as well as it likely could with a proper detailing. The seller has addressed several key maintenance items over the last few months, including replacing the fuel injector lines, the injection pump, the fuel filter, and the injectors, and also drained and cleaned the tank. All of this fuel system works suggests the Mercedes was sitting for some time, possibly even as a result of the importation process which may have faced delays due to COVID. Regardless, it’s a desirable specimen with all of its import paperwork squared away, and it will likely outlast most wagons still on the road.