Vehicle Class:
Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
Reputation for quality, engineering, and durability.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E23), Jaguar XJ, Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, Cadillac Eldorado.
Distinguishing Factors:
Robust build quality, sophisticated engineering, comfortable ride, advanced features for its time.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
Benefits:
Enables accurate diagnostics, proper repairs, and effective maintenance, preserving vehicle value and performance.
Primary Focus:
Factory Service Workshop
Scope:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but implies thoroughness)
Type:
Factory Service Workshop Manual
Language:
English (presumed, typical for factory manuals of this era for international markets)
Format:
HTML/Flash Menu with PDF files
Compatibility:
Windows 95/98/ME/XP/Vista/Win7, Linux, MAC
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, calipers, master cylinder, parking brake, ABS (if equipped, though likely not standard for this specific model year/variant, but manual may cover general principles)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering linkage
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic/manual), differential, driveshafts, axles
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instruments, power windows, central locking
Bodywork:
Exterior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, body panel repair, glass replacement
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, climate control, heating, ventilation
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding of major systems (e.g., transmission, engine components)
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic flowcharts
Level:
Professional/Dealer level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete system rebuilds
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2778 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 180-185 PS (DIN) / 177-183 hp (SAE net) at 5800 RPM (Varies slightly by market and specific engine tune)
Torque:
Approx. 245-250 Nm (181-184 lb-ft) at 4200 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Mechanical)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per Mercedes-Benz specification for the era, likely 95 RON or higher)
Ignition Type:
Breakerless electronic ignition
Cooling Medium:
Water-cooled
Transmission Type 1975:
4-speed Manual (M115 chassis typically had manual standard, but W116 280S often came with automatic)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (722.1 series)
Automatic Features:
Torque converter, hydraulic control, typically with selective gear positions (P-R-N-D-2-1)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1 specification ATF (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent as per manual)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 8-10 liters (depending on torque converter fill)
Length:
Approx. 4995 mm (196.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1800 mm (70.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2900 mm (114.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs) depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2100-2200 kg
Towing Capacity:
Not specified as standard; generally not recommended for significant towing for luxury sedans of this era.
Crash Test Data:
No standardized crash test ratings like modern vehicles; relied on robust construction and passive safety features.
Braking System:
Hydraulically assisted disc brakes front and rear. ABS was not standard on 280S in these years, but might be present on rare export variants.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, power assisted.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts at front, lap belts at rear.
Structure:
Integrated safety cell, crumple zones, reinforced pillars.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamps for improved night visibility.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with optional cassette player, speakers typically front and rear.
Climate Control:
Manual ventilation and heating system, optional air conditioning (often dealer-installed or specific market).
Cruise Control:
Optional mechanical cruise control system.
Parking Assistance:
None (rely on driver skill and mirrors).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km (subject to manual recommendation and oil type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or as specified for automatic transmission.
Major Service Interval:
Indicative major services at 30k, 60k, 90k miles including spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SF/CD (or equivalent for the era), capacity approx. 6.5-7.5 liters.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel distributor seals (K-Jetronic), vacuum lines, engine mounts, suspension bushings, wear on door seals/window seals.
Electrical Quirks:
Aging wiring harnesses, intermittent function of power accessories, instrument cluster issues.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, underbody, around windows.
Manufacturer Establishment:
1926 (merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft)
Automotive Pioneering:
Invention of the automobile, development of safety features like ABS and airbags.
W116 Introduction:
Introduced in 1972 as the successor to the W108/W109 S-Class.
W116 Significance:
First generation to officially be designated 'S-Class' (Sonderklasse - Special Class), setting new standards in luxury and safety.
280S Positioning:
One of the entry-level models in the W116 range, offering a balance of performance and luxury.
Production Period W116:
1972-1980
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Sindelfingen)
Industry Awards:
W116 S-Class generally acclaimed for its engineering and luxury, often cited as a benchmark for luxury sedans of its era.
Consumer Reports:
While specific ratings from the mid-70s are scarce, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this period were generally rated highly for durability and build quality by automotive publications.
Manufacturer Certification:
Certified by Mercedes-Benz engineers for factory-approved repair procedures.
