I have a 1971 250C with auto. tranny. Any ideas on performance upgrades? I'd like to replace the stock coil and have seen ignition upgrades for other vehicles (mostly for electronic ignition) - are there any that would apply to my configuration? It's not that there's a lack of power by any means (I'm actually impressed), but I've always been one to go a step further.

The early Transistorized ignition systems (like that car had originally) limit your choices. First, get rid of the points. PerTronix makes a very good system that uses a magnetic trigger(instead of the Optical trigger that the Crane/Alison kits use). I've installed about 20 of these in the last few years and have been very happy with them.The whole thing fits inside the distributor right where the points used to be and requires no external box. PerTronix also makes a 40,000 Volt coil to use with their trigger system.

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W.R.Durrance
ASE Master Tech
Mercedes Tech 19 Years

Sir,

The stock coil is more than adequate for
this engine.
The point conversions I have done have had excellent results and run flawlessly. Mechanical points suffer from drifting dwell,
block and point wear, resistance, etc. This all affects engine timing and spark strength.
There are several conversions on the market. The one I have had the best result with is the Crane XR-700 series. This is of an optical switching design ,easy to install, and runs around $90. This is the former Allison ignition of years ago.
WWW.cranecams.com will be worth looking at. The one for your application is the #0231 part.
There is also one that is a hall effect style, but the spark output is not as great
with this system. {specially at cranking speed}
After installation, you will notice rock steady timing , easy starts, and better all around running. The cost of future tune-ups will be plugs, wires, and cap. More than offsetting the kit cost.
I have also found that the plug gap can be opened .005 with the new set-up.
Arthur