FWIW, the same trick works on the 560SL; for a first-gear start with an unmodified tranny, select the lowest range then move the lever to the right to the "B" position, then back to drive. And no, the manual doesn't mention it AFAIK except for engine braking on steep grades, when it's used to downshift into first.

As tecqboy said, "It's a Mercedes thing."

__________________
Craig Bethune

'97 SL500, 40th anniversary edition

'04 Olds Bravada (SWMBO's)
'06 Lexus ES330
'89 560SL (sold)


SL--Anything else is just a Mercedes.
(Kudos to whoever said it first)