My experience is but one, on an '88/240/47, and differs from others. However, for what's it's worth, the only thing I can figger about the release/engage point being so low to the floor, is that the old cable must have stretched over the years, thus lowering the point of release/engage.

The housing was so corroded the adjustment screw could not be loosened. I actually, laying on by back and cursing, couldn't get the old cable end out of the counterweight, and finally had to cut it.

And now, with the release/engage point somewhere in the middle of pedal travel, the clutch is certainly completely disengaged when I push the pedal all the way down.

The 5 spd. doesn't engage 1st gear a lot better, but the rest are smoother, and, as I said before, a quick snick into third before going into 1st solves my shifting at rest. 47s are nortorious for this behaviour?

These cars, 240s, have their own peculiarities which eventually become terms of endearment. ONly rust or death will separate me from mine.