Diesel goes manual
 

Ok, so it's decided; I'm converting the good old auto-diesel to manual. I'm not sure whether I'll regret the decision, but after 8 years I'm willing to try something new. I am, however, curious as to how the car's 'performance' will be affected, but trying to figure out confuses me even more than timezones!

Now, here are the facts;

PRESENT:
4spd AUTO 722.403
3.23 Rear differential

FUTURE:
5spd MANUAL 717.412
3.46 Rear differential

Engine is of course the trusty 2.0D with 72hp@4600o/min and 123Nm@2800o/min. I'm quite sure late-model 190Ds were fitted with the same 5spd 717.412 manual transmission, but in that case it had a 3.91 rear differential..

Now; How will all this affect my 'acceleration' and top-speed? How about RPMs at various speeds? Any ideas?

The ratio of first 4 speeds of the manual trans will be almost the same as the Auto trans ratios. BUT with a higher gear ratio in the differential you will have better acceleration. Since you are adding an extra gear ratio that is an overdrive you should have 8-10Kph higher top speed.

Sounds like an overall better set-up & the mileage(fuel economy) should also go up!

Thanks a lot for a quick and informative reply! :)

Your information is great news, now I'm really looking forward to doing this, thanks again!

Just realized I typed 3.07 instead of 3.23 for the ratio of the differential - guess the changes will be less in that case, right? :)