interesting to hear the opinions. Since i'm used to driving a manual i would never over-rev the engine in a gear. most cars seem to like to change around 2-3k rpm depending on road conditions, though the 300e transmission seems like it changes up fast and sometimes i don't want it to change that fast! I guess it's programmed to be fuel efficient that way so i should let it get on with it's job. Maybe i should have bought an older 5-speed version! I did read however that you can control the 1st/2nd gear start by manually shifting, though as mine is a late (dec)'91 model i'm not sure if i have the 1st or 2nd gear start. it certainly seems peppy enough off the line... At least it has a rev counter, my 5-speed s-10 pick-up doesn't have one, just an annoying 'shift' light on the dash that i covered in tape:-)

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1993 320TE M104
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past:

1983 230E W123 M102
1994 E300D S124 OM606 (x2)
1967 250SE W108 M129
1972 280se 3.5 W108 M116
1980 280SE W116 M110
1980 350SE W116 M116
1992 300E W124 M103
1994 E280 W124 M104
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"music and women I cannot but give way to, whatever my business" -Pepys