I just purchased a 1999 E300 TD with 103,000 miles, to replace the 1999 E300TD that was totaled last week.
Today going through the fluids, I checked the trans fluid and it is clear. No odor or burnt smell, just clear. You can't even see it on the dip stick. When some is placed on a white paper towel, there is just the faintest pinkish tint, which could be residual from the previous fluid.

The trans shifts well and doesn't exhibit any problems.
I've done a search and there didn't seem to be any definitive answer, so I was wondering if anyone knows of any top line ATF that is clear?