A method and an arrangement for the speed control of a vehicle as well an operator-controlled element are disclosed which make possible an improved acceleration and/or deceleration input by the driver of the motor vehicle. The speed control takes place in dependence upon a value for an acceleration and/or deceleration of the motor vehicle with this value being pregiven with the aid of an operator-controlled element. The function of the operator-controlled element is different from the function of an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal. With the actuation of the operator-controlled element, one of several different values for the acceleration and/or deceleration is selected and pregiven.