Not so bizarre when you consider that the 603.96 was standard issue in the W126 until the 603.97 came along. Even less bizarre when you consider the cost of a replacement 603.97 vs a replacement 603.96. Could be the difference between a hunk you donate to a wrecker and something you can get running for under 4 figures. It's gotta be better than a small block Chevy swap

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL