Thought I'd join in, got an '87 2.3-16 w/ 131k. Interesting how many have responded to both this survey and the 500E survey, but so few to my post looking for other 16v'ers out here. Whatever.

Anyway, I too agree the gearing on my car is well matched to both the power curve and the chassis. And it is truly sad that there were not more manuals imported here, life would be so much better if they had! As good as an auto can get these days, you cannot replace the involvment / control / feel of a manual.

HOWEVER (and I know I'm throwing myself to the dogs here), I have driven an infinite number of automobiles with FAR SUPERIOR shifters than the one in mine (as well as the one in the 300E I drove). Granted, the bushings could use some sprucing, but let's be real about this shifter. It (sadly) feels similar to an early Ford Escort's shifter. While the dog legged 1st is cool, it SPRO-INGS out of 1st into 2nd, slides too easily up and down the shaft when shifting (some sort of bastardized VW theory?), and has an awfully long throw for performance use. For a Getrag unit, I am less than impressed. The Getrag in my '88 ///M5 was worlds better in terms of feel (heck, even the non-synchro'ed 1st gear unit in my TR3 feels better!). The new shifters in the new C / SLK are aguably much improved. I'll soon be spending some coin for sure an aftermarket bush kit and weighted short thrower, and then it will be at least marginal.

So, bring on the abuse, I know I've upset more than a few of our faithful here... those seeing through unbiased eyes may agree though... I try not to be partial, rather objective in my views...

__________________

Paul

'02 ML320 3rd row - wife's
'01 //S8 Alumi*****
'87 930 Sport Seats / LSD
'58 TR3A commuter

previous

'95 //S6 6gang
'87 190E 2.3-16
'88 ///M5
'98 ML320
'93 300E 2.8
'90 300E 3.0

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