My thanks to all who provided feedback.
"Another brand"? Thou speakest heresy good sir, although you're probably right. But have you seen what used Dell D series machine are going for?
I'll investigate the suggested ThinkPads after I test the 240 I was just gifted.

Hi, Can anyone suggest a "late model" ThinkPad with a DB9 serial port on the case? I'm working with automotive diagnostics systems and the USB to serial adapters cause no end of anguish. My T42 has a serial port I can use but it requires a port replicator or dock which are a pain under the hood of a...