Surprisingly, I never got asked even once, "What is it"? Lots of people knew it was Mercedes powered too. Some even knew about the expensive oil changes.
Several people (my hight) asked me how did I fit into it, and I told them to get in and try it on for size. Even a judge asked me a dozen questions about it. (and I wasn't having it judged either).
Women (of all ages) just seem to be crazy about the Crossfire.
I got nothing but compliments on the hood, and lots of smiles.
Tighed1 I would say go for it. I came home feeling pretty good about owning my little $10k car, but then that happens eveytime I look at it, and especially when I drive it.