By all means get the 240D with the manual transmission. If you don't find it has enough power it's a very simple job to put the 300D engine up against the 240D manual tranny. And yes TXBill you do need a stinking 5 cylinder. As some of you know, I've added manual trannys to all our turbos. Well, I finally found a 5 speed and ordered it delivered today and will let you all know how it moves a trubo 300D. Likewise, about the time that gets installed my Intercooler kit will be in the turbo. I had the good fortune to find a local trubocharger shop to do the piping and the owner has a turbo wagon, so he's as excited as I am about how the whole thing will work. Doing the tubing for half price. Likewise on the update and will include phots when all is done.

But back to the original subject, get the 240D even if you're going to put a larger engine in it as the a/c is simpler and works as are the manual windows, as are the front spring and the quicker steering. You'll loose the 300Ds and Turbos any day on winding roads driving a 240D.

P.s. Looks like I'm picking up another 300D to strip, so if anyone needs any parts sing out.

Good Luck!
Ben