I think the transmission is unique to the 3.5 V8 cars. The 300SL might be a better driving car but I like a V8. Regarding the shifter-the rods have rubber bushings on one end and nylon on the other. They were completely gone on my 3.5 coupe causing a lot of play. $10 worth of parts and much tighter.

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Tony H
W111 280SE 3.5 Coupe
Manual transmission

Past cars:
Porsche 914 2.0
'64 Jaguar XKE Roadster
'57 Oval Window VW
'71 Toyota Hilux Pickup Truck-Dad bought new
'73 Toyota Celica GT