I likened to manually shift the E300TD at 5100 rpm at WOT. Why it was never programmed to shift that late, I have no clue. Power delivery is strong right up until at least that point. Engaging kickdown, the most I saw was 4700 rpm, a bit early, IMHO.

The E300 would net about 30 mpg, even in the coldest weather, with blended diesel fuel. Low to mid 30's in the summer. I couldn't believe it until I drove one for myself for an extended period of time.

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1987 300SDL (324000)

1986 Porsche 951 (944 Turbo) (166000)

1978 Porsche 924 (99000)

1996 Nissan Pathfinder R50 (201000)