factory 5 speed

[m300cab]

does the vin show if a car was originally a 5 speed?
i know of 250sl about to change hands, the buyer wants to verify
it is a factory 5 speed.
thank you

[Atazman]

I believe code "230" on the 2nd line of the card designates the factory 5-speed.

[mbzse]

does the vin show if a car was originally a 5 speed?.../...

Yes, the data card for the car in question certainly does, just like Don stated.  "230" and "232" were printed in the box "Wenig gewuenscht" to the right.

[MikeSimon]

The "VIN" only tells you if it was an automatic or a manual. I don't know if there is a difference in the "manual" codes..
For example:
113 044 is 280SL ...   the following "02" is "automatic".  I assume the "01" would be manual

[neelyrc]

To be clear Michael, the VIN will not show you if the car was a five speed.  The data card corresponding to the VIN will show you as indicated by Don and Hans.