Spares for Classic Cars:
The S 5-20 Project

Mercedes Benz Pagode owners, at least some of them, have been harboring the desire for more driving comfort and fun through reduced revs and more economic consumption for a long time. This has remained within the realm of wishful thinking – at least where the original condition is important. Now this can change: By offering replicas, ZF intends to enable 4-speed-to-5-speed conversion with original spare parts. The automotive supplier ZF is offering support also with regard to wearing spares that are difficult to obtain - or not obtainable at all. Repair kits with synchronizer, bearing and sealing sets, for example, or a set with a completely mounted shifter head are planned to be offered. These parts were installed, for example, in various Maserati models, such as the 3500 GTI, Sebring, and Mistral (6-cylinder versions). The S 5-20 was also installed in the 4.2-liter versions of the Mexico, Indy, and Quattroporte.

Why the S 5-20 of all transmissions? ZF has been confronted again and again in the past with inquiries regarding the S 5-20. All documentation on this transmission is still available, which is unfortunately not the case for all ZF products. The absence of tools resulting in the need for investment can represent a major hindrance. Therefore, production of the complete transmission will not be started before 250 binding orders have been submitted. This contract size is required for economy reasons, for aspects of economy are important especially in times of crises. This replica production is intended to remain unrepeatable. There are many other products, for which classic car owners have submitted inquiries about replicas. Even if it is not possible to help each customer, the attempt will be made in any case.

This ZF 5-speed transmission was produced between 1964 and 1976. It was offered as an option for the models 230 SL, 250 SL, 280 SL as well as the 300 SE, SEb, and SEL.