My bowden cable was so far out of adjustment that I'd see 4th by the time I reached 20-25mph...talk about a dog. 1st 2nd and 3rd never got to see 2000rpm. Once I adjusted the cable I actually experienced 2nd gear, and much to my delight 3rd! Now I dare say it flies...well, uh, at least compared to a 240D anyway.

( reason I mention the cable is it would've been disconnected during engine swap)
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03/83 300D
07/73 280