I agree that there are some neat features with the MLC card, at a cost of $275 per year. By the way, MLC Club is not the same as an "Elite status" because you don't get priority boarding and flight standby. You only get lounge access and priority check-in.

If one really wants to go for a Diners card, this is the way to do it: get a regular silver card for $60. Then make sure you get the sign up bonus of 12,000 miles, don't let them convince you that the offer doesn't exist or is expired, etc.

Once the miles are in, then upgrade to a Maple Leaf Club card by paying the annual fee difference. This way you get to have the bonus and the better card.

If you sign up directly to a MLC card, there will be NO bonus at all! I wish that I knew about this and did not have to learn this the hard way.