Hmmm, I don't know the price tag in the US (assuming you have a north
american perspective on things)... but over here in Europa the ASK-21
is not that expensive and it's a very sustainable strategy for a bigger
gliding club to actually by a new ASK-21 when the old one has reached a
certain flight time limit, and to sell off the old one for a good price
on the second hand market.
However, I do share your opinion on the MB...