🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

280E

Year:

1981

Chassis Code:

W123

Body Style:

Sedan (4-door)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mercedes-Benz W123 series, particularly the 280E, was positioned as a premium executive sedan known for its robust engineering, luxury, and durability. It competed with other European luxury marques of the era.

Competitors:

BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Audi 100, Volvo 240/260 series, Jaguar XJ6, Cadillac Sedan de Ville.

Vehicle Strengths:

Exceptional build quality, ride comfort, safety features for its time, reliable powertrain, timeless design.

Manual Benefits:

Enables owners and mechanics to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs to factory standards, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of a classic vehicle. Crucial for preserving the value of a Mercedes-Benz.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical, Fuel, Cooling, Exhaust, Body, Interior, Climate Control, Diagnostics

Estimated Pages:

Refer to product listing for exact page count. Typically 500+ pages for comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), or Print. Specify based on actual product.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulator.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing, electronic control unit (if applicable for 1981).

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, expansion tank.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for US market), mufflers, exhaust pipes.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox (4-speed or 5-speed manual), driveshafts, universal joints.

Transmission Automatic:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 4G-TRONIC), torque converter, hydraulic control.

Suspension Front:

Independent front suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, anti-roll bar.

Suspension Rear:

Independent rear suspension (semi-trailing arm), coil springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering gearbox, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods.

Brakes Front:

Ventilated disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake lines.

Brakes Rear:

Disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake lines.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Instruments:

Dashboard instruments, gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, trim.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, carpets, headliner, controls.

Climate Control:

Heater core, blower motor, air conditioning system (if equipped), controls, refrigerant lines.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points.

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, valve adjustment, piston ring replacement.

Fuel System Diagnosis Repair:

Troubleshooting K-Jetronic system, injector testing, fuel pressure testing, pump replacement.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid change, filter replacement, clutch adjustment/replacement, automatic transmission overhaul.

Brake Service:

Brake pad replacement, rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, caliper overhaul.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Component replacement (ball joints, tie rods, bushings), alignment specifications.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams interpretation, component testing, diagnosis of electrical faults.

Bodywork Repair:

Panel alignment, door adjustment, window mechanism repair.

Climate Control Service:

A/C system charging, component replacement, heater system repair.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, common fault identification, repair sequences.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable PDF, printable pages, high-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Print Quality Details:

Clear, legible text and diagrams. If printed, professional binding and paper quality.

Binding Type Details:

If printed: Spiral-bound for lay-flat usability or perfect-bound. Ensure durability for workshop use.

Paper Type Details:

If printed: High-quality, durable paper stock resistant to workshop oils and grease.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M110 (typically)

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2746 cc)

Horsepower Net:

Approx. 142 hp @ 5000 rpm (for European spec, US spec might differ slightly due to emissions)

Torque Net:

Approx. 160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for European spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic Mechanical Fuel Injection

Octane Rating:

Premium Unleaded (91 RON or higher recommended)

Oil Capacity With Filter:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation at the time).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4G-TRONIC)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated (for manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MB Specification 236.3 (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent at the time)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

MB Specification 235.1 (e.g., SAE 80W-90 GL-4 gear oil)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4725 mm (186.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1440 mm (56.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs), depending on equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to VIN plate for specific rating.

Trunk Capacity:

Generous for its class, designed for practical executive use.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Modern crash test data is not directly comparable to vehicles of this era. However, the W123 was renowned for its safety engineering, including a strong unibody structure and safety cage.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes (front ventilated). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature introduced later in the W123 lifecycle, may not be standard or available on all 1981 models.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear occupants (standard).

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original units were typically analog AM/FM radios with cassette players. Modern aftermarket head units are commonly installed.

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, temperature, oil pressure. Analog clock. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on some models.

Original Connectivity:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were standard or widely available).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact interval.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles). Manual: Less frequent, typically inspected during major services. Refer to manual.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) for K-Jetronic system.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).

Coolant:

50/50 mix of Mercedes-Benz approved coolant or equivalent (e.g., G05) and distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 compliant brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings (due to age/mileage), exhaust system components, fuel pressure regulator, idle control valve (K-Jetronic).

Electrical Issues:

Wiring harness degradation, vacuum leaks affecting engine performance, headlight switch issues, dashboard warning light malfunctions.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, sills, jack points, trunk floor, around windows. Proper rust prevention and treatment are crucial for preservation.

Fuel System Care:

Regular use of quality fuel, occasional use of fuel system cleaner suitable for K-Jetronic systems. Ensure proper functioning of the warm-up regulator.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long history of engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.

W123 Lineage:

The W123 was introduced in 1975 as a successor to the W114/W115 series and was produced until 1986. It was known for its exceptional durability and was available in sedan, coupe, estate (T-model), and long-wheelbase versions. The 280E represented the more powerful gasoline engine option.

Production Years:

1975-1986

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, Argentina, others.

1981 Updates:

The 1981 model year falls within the facelifted W123 range (introduced 1980), which featured updated exterior trim (e.g., larger bumpers, revised grille), improved interior ergonomics, and potential powertrain refinements.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The W123 series received widespread acclaim from automotive journalists and the public for its build quality, reliability, and comfort, often referred to as the 'last of the over-engineered Mercedes'.

Quality Standards:

Built to stringent Mercedes-Benz quality and durability standards of the era.