IIRC the dam gasket is specified for very early engines because of different lubricant streams. I forget the break number but it’s 4 digits - 00xxxx. It doesn’t matter for later engines but using at outline gasket let’s you keep the basket where you won’t lose it. I prefer metal gaskets that don’t require scraping when you replace them. I reuse the metal gasket with the same front cover and pump.

Sixto
98 E320s sedan and wagon
02 C320 wagon