I had the impression that only the engine and some crucial parts
are from Japan. The rest are source / fabricated in Thailand.
.... and yes, IMO, SA Merc are inferior. Are there really
vietnamese/thailand made BMWs ??? I woun't touch those ... even if
I have the $ 
Given a choice between a German Made C-class and a SA made C-class
of the same design n spec, would you choose the SA ver ? ..... NOT
ME 