Is it possible to find a 190d 2.5L 5-speed?
 

I guess that they were sold here from scattered references on these boards, but I'm guessing that they're few and far between. If they are available, how expensive are they?

They are somewhat common, but non-turbo only with a manual. I'd pay about $5-6000 for one in really good shape.

Most of the 88-90 190D 2.5's with manual transmissions that we saw(new) were used by "Freightliner" sales reps for 18 months & then went to auction!

I tore the head off one two months ago... It had a good body and interior but a trashed engine..

I think I get your point (engine is trashed?) but just out of curiosity, what's a Freightliner rep?

Thanks! What's the power/acceleration/"fun factor" difference between a turbo and a non-turbo 190d? Does the MT make up for the loss of the turbo in your opinion? Somehow I can't see driving an AT for a non-DD.

Freightliner truck sales representative.

Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, a Daimler company.

TD versus D - 5 speed vs auto.
 

A 190d 2.5T will blow away a 2.5 non-turbo regardless of the transmissions. I've had several combinations of these cars - check my sig line, and I'm buying another body shell this weekend for a transplant.

Many people will say that the 2.5Turbo is better suited to the auto trans due to the turbo remaining at boost during shifts. However, the 2.5 T with a 5-speed is a hoot to drive also.

My favorite combo is the 2.5T engine and a 5-speed transmsission. These were not available in the US, but they are not too tough to build. You can start with a 2.5T with a bad auto trans. These are not too uncommon, as the auto trans seems to be a weak link. Then get everything you need for the swap from a 2.3 5-speed gasser. These are fairly easy to find.

Then just bolt the parts together.

My 2 cents,

Steve.