1982 240d highway screaming..... - Page 4 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ChiefRider · #46 06-14-2012, 08:30 AM

This thread brought me back. I had a '79 240D 4 speed for several years. I remember that I really learned what it meant to drive strategically in that car! I pretty much drove it flat out, all the time. Whether it was floored trying to keep up with the flow of highway traffic, or building momentum to get up and over some of our hills at speeds over 30 mph, that car really was driver interactive.

barry123400 · #47 06-14-2012, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Codifex Maximus

These 240D's were built in the 55mph era. They are geared accordingly. It is also my understanding that there is no overdrive in a 5 speed or a 4 speed manual - you just get more ratios in a 5 speed with possible smoother acceleration/speed matching.

When my 240D was running, I got used to being in the slow lane but loved the way the engine hummed. It was as if the engine and the car were happy at 60 or 65mph. No need to push it.

If you want acceleration, get a 300 Turbo.

The fifth gear is an overdrive is certain. Forth gear is one to one the same as the four speed. Fifth gear is quite a help.

The five speed transmissions are out there but scarce is the correct word.

tee51397 · #48 06-14-2012, 05:25 PM

I also rebuilt my rear end and went to 3.07 while I was at it. Admittedly I thought it may have been a bad call but it is 100% the best thing I ever did. I agree with the above on the butt dyno, it seems faster to me. Actually I noticed no difference whatsoever on a WOT take off but with the 3.07 part throttle acceleration is without question faster. Hills aren't an issue and cursing at 70-75 I hear something odd for a 240 - wind noise. It freaked me out a little at first. I do, however have a slush-box so can't comment on feasibility on a manual gearbox. I actually expected my in-town mileage to drop but it went up about 6mpg and highway 2mpg.

Hip001 · #49 06-19-2012, 11:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tram

Sounds like squashed motor mounts, possibly.

Tram,
Yes motor mounts have been purchased and awaiting my installation.(hope it makes a difference) I installed the hood pad and that made a noticeable difference. I have found if i slow down to 65 mph it's a comfortable cruise. It will peg the 85mph speedo on a LONG stretch but not use to the high reving sounds. BUT remembering back to my 1st German car, 1966 Beetle, on my highway trips i'd floor it and then lift ever so slightly for the 2hr trips! maybe the windows down & vent windows blowing on me muffled the engine revving??

TheDon · #50 06-20-2012, 12:17 AM

I drove my 240D 4 speed at 55-60 on the highway since that's why it was designed for. Even in my 300D I still putz around. I get nice fuel economy. that way.