The second gear start in the Mercedes of the 80's was done for two reasons. The main reason was fuel mileage (and IIRC there might have been a fractional benefit for emissions), and the other reason was that first is a true stump-puller (for the reasons cited above) and in slick conditions can be tricky; starting in second allows easier control of power and less likelihood of wheelspin. As others have mentioned, first is available through the shift lever, through the kickdown switch if you floor it from rest, and on demand if there's an unusual load sensed.
To the best of my knowledge, it was only done on the larger V8s, due to their exceptional thirst and exceptional torque.

__________________
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)