U.S. vs. European spec

[glickbo]

I am still in the hunt to purchase a pagoda and found a 1967 230sl european spec-has speedometer in km/hr-is there any difference in value between a euro spec car and an american one?  the car actually looks pretty good so im going to have a mechanic take a look at it but was wondering about the speedometer-as always i appreciate everyone's input!!   

[Jordan]

Glickbo, good luck in your search.  WRT the car you are looking at, how do you know it is a Euro spec car?  The km/hr speedo may just mean it may have spent time in Canada or across the pond.  In any event, if you don't care for the speedo and would prefer mph you can always swap it out.  There are always people looking for km/hr speedos.  I had a mph speedo in mine when I bought it and swapped it for a km/hr one.  You find them on e-bay regularly.  I also still have mine.

[zoegrlh]

I own a Euro spec.  I see you feel there is a problem with speedo.  I have drove my SL so much that I know what speed in mph I am going when looking at my Km on speedo.  You can make a chart for mph/Km to keep in your glove box, and use it when out for a ride.  No much is different with Euros., head lamps, speedo manual transmission, about only major things different.  Euros here in the states are rare, but not a problem with parts, etc.  Value wise, both Euro and US spec. are same in my eyes.  US specs were shipped with automatic transmissions, and often were fitted by dealer with A/C.
Bob

[glickbo]

thanks so much-im not terribly concerned about the kph-actually i think its pretty cool, i was just wondering if it does anything to the value of the car-i will keep you posted on the search-cheers!

[Flyair]

BTW, if somebody wants to swap his km/h speedo, I will be happy to supply my speedo that a is from a US 1971 280sl version and is in a perfect condition.
The car its currently undergoing "Europeanization" modifications (headlights etc) that I hope to finish before the next season (March).
So, in car there is a swap candidate… just let me know

[Erik]

Hello,

The most important difference to my opinion, except for the headlamps, is the rear axle ratio.

US 230’s have a 4,08 reduction rate, while euro models have 3,75.
That makes quite a difference in engine speed, noise and … fuel consumption.


Speed in miles/hour with a wheel diameter of 25,4 inch.

r.p.m.   US 4,08    Euro 3,75

2500   45   50
3000   55   60
3500   64   70
4000   73   80

Greetings,
Erik