Sounds like this will turn out to be a good project.

The 722.5/722.6 (5-speed auto) is starting to sound appealing. Questions:
How much punishment can they take?
Can they take stiff launches like a stick can?
Fifth speed ratio?

I plan to take this baby to the track on weekends (and the occasional street race, RICER KILLER! )

__________________
Vehicles:
2002 SLK 230
Gone but not forgotten:
1983 300D
1981 El Camino 'OILBRNR' - 6.2L diesel
OM617 powered '86 F150
1984 BMW 524td
2001 VW Beetle TDI
1994 Sunurban 4x4 6.5L diesel