John:
Some of your questions can be answered by having the Data Card for your car.
Call the Mercedes Classic Center and ask them to send you the Data Card for your car. They may ask for proof of ownership such as a copy of the Registration for the car since the card shows the key codes.
The Data Card will show the exterior and interior colors, the interior color and material, soft top color, engine and tranny numbers, the options on your car, date or production, original dealer area, and more.
While waiting for the card, take a look at the Tech Manual entry for "Data Card"
Richard M, NYC