Looking at the bumpers and the headlights, I would guess to say it's more likely a grey market car. MB has been selling mid size cars with 5 speed trannies in Europe since the early 70's (w114's and w108's). I have never seen a US spec car with a 5 speed until the W201 models.

The manual A/C controls on a 280 are also a dead giveaway.

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With best regards

Al