The Mercedes-Benz R107 SL is celebrated for its timeless design and luxurious cruising capabilities. However, for enthusiasts craving a more engaging driving experience, the question of manual transmissions often arises, particularly concerning the V8 models like the 350 Sl Mercedes. While not a common factory configuration, the story of manual V8 350 SLs is one of rarity, bespoke conversions, and passionate enthusiasts.
The original forum post highlights the scarcity of manual V8 R107s, pointing out that Mercedes-Benz themselves didn’t widely offer this combination. In fact, the post suggests that the only known factory-installed V8 five-speed manual in a 107 was a very limited AMG creation, predating Mercedes’ acquisition of AMG. These models are exceptionally rare, with estimates of only five or six in North America.
Beyond official factory offerings, the discussion delves into the world of conversions, specifically focusing on the Getrag 265 five-speed manual transmission. These conversions, while not Mercedes-Benz factory builds, represent a significant effort to enhance the driving dynamics of the 350 SL and similar V8 R107 models. The post lists several known examples of Getrag 265 conversions in 350 SLs and related models, showcasing a dedicated community pursuing this modification:
- 48hp’s’s 350 SL: A known example of a Getrag 265 conversion.
- rjmburgess’s 350 SL: Potentially linked to “Helmut,” formerly of AMG, adding a layer of historical interest.
- kmuckerjee’s 350 SL: Originally owned by Harvey Crane, indicating a history within enthusiast circles.
- Red 350 SL in Pennsylvania (2017): Features a 300km speedometer and Pentas wheels, suggesting a performance-oriented build.
- NY Area 350 SL: A less documented conversion in the New York area.
- 380SLC Conversion: A 380SLC initially modified and later converted to a Getrag 265 manual.
- W126 (Non-107 Example): A mention of a rare W126 Getrag 265 conversion, highlighting the broader interest in manual V8 Mercedes.
The forum post proposes a useful classification for these manual V8 conversions, dividing them into two categories:
- Iron Block Creations (3.5-based): Utilizing the bellhousing pattern of the earlier 3.5 V8, which is shared with the iron block 450SLC 5.0.
- Getrag 265 Alloy Block Conversions (1980+): These require custom bell housings to mate the Getrag 265 to the later alloy block V8 engines introduced in 1980 and onwards.
This distinction highlights the different approaches and challenges in creating a manual V8 350 SL. The desire for a readily available bell housing to connect the Getrag 265 to the alloy block 5.0 engine underscores a key hurdle for enthusiasts looking to undertake such conversions.
In conclusion, while a factory manual V8 350 SL Mercedes remains an extreme rarity, the dedication of enthusiasts and the emergence of Getrag 265 conversions demonstrate a clear demand for a more driver-focused experience in these classic vehicles. The quest to perfect the manual V8 350 SL continues, fueled by passion and ingenuity within the Mercedes-Benz community.
