Fully Printable (individual pages or entire manual)
Binding Type
Physical Binding Equivalent:
Digital Download (printable for user-created binding)
Paper Type
Physical Paper Equivalent:
User-printable on standard paper
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2799 cc)
Engine Code:
M110.987
Performance
Horsepower Approx:
185 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate for European spec, US spec may vary)
Torque Approx:
240 Nm @ 3500 rpm (approximate for European spec)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic Mechanical Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane Recommended)
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Transmission (likely standard in many markets for 280E)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional, often referred to as '722.1' or '722.3' series)
Features
Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III (for automatic) / Gear Oil GL-4 (for manual, specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual)
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Body Style:
4-door Sedan (Saloon)
Wheelbase:
2810 mm (110.6 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
1470 kg (3240 lbs) - varies by option and market
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Safety Era:
Designed to late 1970s/early 1980s safety standards, with significant improvements over predecessors.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (typically ventilated front discs), Vacuum Servo Assist
Passive Features
Chassis Construction:
Monocoque construction with integrated crumple zones
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, often with inertia reels; rear seatbelts
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory original radio/cassette player (e.g., Becker models), optional features like power antenna.
Driver Assistance
Climate Control:
Optional Air Conditioning (often belt-driven compressor), manual ventilation systems.
Cruise Control:
Optional Cruise Control System (likely vacuum or electronically controlled).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on core vehicle functions.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Approx:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Major Service Interval Approx:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 km (includes inspections of critical components, spark plugs, belts, etc.).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (specific Mercedes-Benz approval to be confirmed in manual, e.g., MB 227.1, 228.1)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant concentrate (e.g., G05 or similar ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Vacuum system leaks (affecting central locking, climate control, engine idle), differential seals, transmission mounts, flex discs, ball joints, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills, jacking points).
Engine Specifics:
M110 engine: Potential for valve guide wear, timing chain stretch over high mileage. K-Jetronic system can be sensitive to fuel quality and requires meticulous maintenance.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Reputation:
Mercedes-Benz: Known for engineering excellence, durability, luxury, and safety innovations.
Model Evolution
W123 Generation:
Second generation of the mid-size Mercedes-Benz model range (1976-1985). Known for its exceptional build quality and longevity.
280E Positioning:
Positioned as a powerful, refined, and comfortable engine option within the W123 lineup, bridging the gap between the four-cylinder models and the V8 variants.
Production
Production Period W123:
1976 โ 1985
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen, Untertรผrkheim), with global assembly plants.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reputation:
The W123 chassis is widely acclaimed for its legendary durability and reliability, often cited as one of the most over-engineered Mercedes-Benz models.
Industry Standing:
Considered a benchmark for build quality and longevity in its segment during its production run.
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