I think my 240D also tops out at about 85mph, but it’s been a while. I cruise at 65 and have no problem with 75 if I need to. I just like the 65mph speed. An occasional higher rpm (I do it going up long hills in third gear) takes care of the “tune up”.

It is a bit slow when increasing speed (I hate to use the word “accelerate” when describing a 240D), but more than not it is adequate. I avoid uphill on ramps into heavy fast moving traffic if I can. The only other thing that is an issue to me is when I need to get out of someone else’s way. If there is something or someone in traffic that you need to avoid, you can only effectively brake or steer your way out of trouble. Pressing the right peddle isn’t much of an option as there is little effect.

If you have someone impatient with your speed and riding your bumper while you are in a 240D manual, you can always do what I do. Downshift to a high rpm and clean out the crud in their face. It is quite effective and they almost always back off. I did it repeatedly to some jerk a few weeks ago until I ran out of crud and he pulled off the road with respiratory problems. I don’t know if James Bond ever thought of that trick.

1983 240D 4sp manual 167K