Quote:
Originally Posted by pawoSD
A higher overdrive would take the M103 out of its ideal power band/torque range for pushing a car that size at the given speed. The MB engineers designed it as such.
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A taller overdrive would benefit the 300SE. It would reduce it's highway engine speed to a much quieter 2500 rpm or so. It's got more than enough torque at that speed to propel the vehicle at a steady state. If necessary, it can downshift for hills.
However, since a five speed wasn't available at that time, and accelerating the rather heavy vehicle at an acceptable rate is of paramount importance..........it gets the short axle for that purpose.