Shift control swap
 

I have a 99 sl500 and a 2000 e320. The shift modules or actually the shifter are similar but not exactly the same. The 99 has a position for 1-2-3-4 and drive or OD and the e320 has a semi manual type, Probably just an improvement between years, I like the e320 better, as it is more designed for sport driving. Can they be swapped? Is the software or programming the same and the physical design the only difference? Anyone know?

They can be swapped. You need to plug the park release on the transmission. You'll need a shifter module as well as a new controller.

I can dig up part numbers if you like.

I was just thinking swap from the e to the SL, 4matic play into this? When you say controller, where is that? would not the controller stay the same?

4matic doesn't matter.

The controller and wiring to the shift module is different on account of the way you manually switch gears. The old Z gate has a position sensor for the lever once it disengages from the shift rod (4-1) and the new style with the left and right shift function uses a simple set of switch to detect/count your gear changes.
So the way the module understands the floor shift is different.

If your handy and can figure out wiring you can make it work.