This car has a hydraulic clutch actuation system. The position of the point where the clutch begins to pull is determined by the wear of the clutch components. With a little more stick shift practice this will become no problem at all.

If I were looking for a fifteen or twenty year old used car, whether it is a 240D or a 300SDL, my prime consideration would be condition, not particular accessory equipment or color. That's the considerations you have when buying a new car. If you find a car equipped just like you want it, with the right color AND in good condition, it will take you a long time, or you will be VERY lucky.

I have a soft spot for manual transmission 240D's, so I hope you find one. The availability of good 123's on the market comes and goes, but I have noticed three relatively low mileage, manual 240D's in the Dallas Morning News in the last few weeks. I'm sure you can find them on line.

Good luck,