Mercury7,
I don't know if you can tell a Euro engine by it's number. I've never heard of any such database.
I'm not sure about that engine plate, it looks more like a body plate. I am not near my W113 now to verify, but I would think it would read "127.981-10-XXXXXX". Can anyone confirm what's on their 230SL engine plate?
Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420