[Formerly YB-2]

Thanks. A good story and a great automobile.
Surprised he did not mention the 83 people killed (and 100+ injured) when a factory 300SLR ran into the crowd at Le Mans in 1955 (worst racing accident ever). As a result, safety became a serious issue at all race tracks and Mercedes withdrew from factory supported racing until 1987.
When he was driving at the end either he does not do well driving a stick-shift or there were no synchros in the trannie. Or, perhaps the owner instructed him to double-clutch when shifting, which saves wear & tear on them.