I feel it is time to treat myself and am proposing to purchase either an E-Class Mercedes-Benz estate or 5 Series BMW Touring. Either will be less than a year old, but the question I am really stuck on is whether to go for petrol or diesel. I only cover around 10,000 miles a year and, on that basis, was always under the impression that petrol should be the choice as diesel cars are generally more expensive to purchase and service. Also, of course, there is the potential for problems with the DPF on regular shorter runs. The salesmen, however, all seem to suggest the diesel version and I would therefore very much appreciate your impartial view.