Final update for this thread:

Fitted a new ignition coil and so far, no further occurance of the problem. I may have damaged the transmission trying to go from neutral to drive whilst revving the engine but time will tell.

Thanks to all who responded - this really is a great forum and a definite benefit to owning a Mercedes.

Cheers!

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John

1983 Mercedes-Benz 280E 115k miles
1986 BMW R1100 GS 40k miles