[W126 Coupe] Conversion 380 to 500euro

[Vance Rowley]

Dick,

 I must admit I am not sure about the Euro 500, (or the 380) but the Euro 560 transmission and diff ratio's are different from the US versions. If you have the complete 500 Euro MB then it might be worth considering transplanting the tranny and diff as well. If it is the same story with the 500 as the 560, this would give you far better acceleration times. Of course it also depends on the condition of the units, but thought I would just point out the possibility. Also check what ratio's the 380 has also. It could work out even better.

Good luck,
Vance.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Dick Spellman" <spell.yy at verizon.net>
To: <mbcoupes at mbcoupes.com>
Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2006 11:45 PM
Subject: [W126 Coupe] Conversion 380 to 500euro


> Any opinions on the following that is under consideration at this time???
> 
> I plan on removing the 380 motor and keeping the new tranny on the 83 
> SEC.  I have a 500euro motor that I am planning on having completely 
> rebuilt before transplanting into the 380 chassis.  Since I have the 
> entire 500euro MB with all electrics, fuel management, controls etc. 
> they are available for a complete transplant with a minimum of fuss. (I 
> hope)
> 
> Any reasons I would not want to go this route?  Costs of the rebuild 
> with a few changes to piston bore and cams are in the $4-5k range.  
> Transplant is in the $1k range.
> 
> Just asking if there is any downside to the effort described.  I know 
> that a zero clocked 500euro motor with 10:1 compression ratio and more 
> horsepower along with a period of minimal service once the engine is 
> reworked is the benefit.
> 
> I had weighed this against a dual chain conversion on the 380 motor.  I 
> have no plans on doing the dual chain work which comes very close to the 
> above costs (approx $4-5k).  It would seem easier to just off-load the 
> 380 motor for a few dollars and gain the better MB engine for this car.  
> Of course I'd love to spot a 560euro but, think that very unlikely.
> 
> I am attaching a really crunched photo of the project SEC I have been 
> working on for a while now just to help you appreciate why I'd keep the 
> 380SEC at all!
> 
> Regards,
> 
> Dick.