Peter,

Mid-93 all 500Es got the larger SL600 binders, front and rear.

As to the 1st gear start, it's there if you want it by simply notching the shifter down to "B" and either leaving it there or switching back up to "D". I've found my quickest launches (per G-tech) were when I took off in "D"; by getting the car in motion in 2nd gear then dropping quickly into 1st (which the car does as a matter of course), I think it decreases ASR intervention. If you start in 1st gear, ASR will engage EVERY time, or if you have ASR defeat then your back tires will boil off the rims!!

__________________
"If God had meant for us to walk, why did he give us feet that fit car pedals?" Sir Sterling Moss

Michael
2014 E63S Estate
2006 SLK55
1995 E500
1986 Porsche 944 turbo