Ok here we go (Right after each get a thorough cleaning). The Euro is a 1980 model and the California car is a 1982. Here are the differences that I have noticed, which is the best way yo go? I have both cars complete:

There is a long list of differences so let's take one at a time.

1) The Euro has a non EGR intake without a ventury flap. There looks to be a lot more room to work around the non EGR model. I think I can just block off the EGR vac line from the throttle linkage and take off the ventury linkage off the CA Model.

2) The Vacuum pumps are also different. The Euro Model has a breather hose going to the air filter housing and the CA model must breathe internally (just a guess). Which one is better? Can they be changed out reasonably? The previous owner of the Euro model says the vac pump is going bad. (Brakes work good, but the vac system is very WACK. The trans vac modulator is hooked directly to the main vacuum hose and you use some ones lips to suck on a hose inside the car to shut it off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (SPIT SPIT icky icky Yuck)). I'll check the vac pump further before engine is removed.

3) There does not appear to be a bowden cable on either one. I take that they both are an electric kick down type tranny.

4) The left motor mount (driver's side) on the Euro model does not appear to have a shock absorber built into the casting. The CA model appears to have a shock in the casting on the left side only. (Again I'll need to clean this up to see). Which is better, the 82 CA model as an improvement?

5) The CA model air conditioner (AC) hoses are shaped differently only to accomidate the cruise control. CA model looks harder to get at. Just more pain for us west coast peeps).

6) The transmissions appear the same from the top side. Again I have not been under either car (YET).


I plan to exhange engine and auto trans at one shot.

Any comments will be helpful. (Even if you say just buy a new 500SL. I pass that tip to my wife and she will make the final on that one).

Thanks again. You folks truly are the best, even if somene in driving a FORD tells you that your "number one".

__________________
1984 280SEL, 62,000 miles
Euro model in the USA
1983 300D (Totaled out 10/2004)
New Factory Mint Green paint
Palomino int
1982 240D (Steak dinner for two)