W123 280TE MPH per 1000RPM

[tuk841]

Hello,

I've just bought my '85 280TE auto yesterday, and have counted the ratios on my drive back from Devon to Stroud, and there appears to be four steps:
But at 70mph the tacho is reading 3500rpm, that is 20mph/1000rpm.

Is it is actually changing into top gear I wonder? As this seems a very low ratio for such a big engine/car?

Thanks, Ian

 

[Simon]

You might find this interesting.

 

[Shude]

I wonder how this ended up in feedback? I think it would be more likely to receive replies if it was in the Engine section. Moving!

 

[Dieselman]

MB gear ratios are often very low.

Wait until the car is apparently in top and pull the gear stick back to third. You will then know if top has been selected.