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1966 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE W109 (Manuals / 5 Gears) RWD (1965-1967)

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Overview

1966 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE W109 (Manuals / 5 Gears) RWD (1965-1967)

The 1966 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE with 5-speed manual transmission represented the most technically refined variant of the W109 series for speed fans. This model used the ZF S5-20 gearbox, a rare and prestigious option that optimized the power of the legendary M189 engine . This 2996 cm3 petrol engine with aluminum block and mechanical injection Bosch produces 170 hp / 168 hp / 125 kW and a 249 nm torque . The fifth gear allowed the vehicle to reach a top speed of 200 km/h with lower engine torque, increasing acoustic comfort and highway efficiency. Like any W109, this version was equipped with pneumatic (airborne) suspension as standard equipment, offering a ride stability and smoothness that remains iconic to this day.

Model:W109 300 SE
Production year:1966
Transmission:Manuale with 5 speed (ZF)
Starting price:€8,800
Engine size:3.0 L
Max torque:249 Nm
Cylinders alignment:Line 6
Charge system:Gasoline pa turbocharger
Displacement:2996 cm3
Max power:170 PS / 168 HP / 125 kW
Fuel type:Gasoline
Fuel consumption:12.8 L/100km combined
Extra-urban:9.8-11.8 L/100km
City:14.9-17.9 L/100km
Emission standard:N/A
Body style:Sedan
0-80 km/h:6.1 s
0-100 km/h:9.4 s
0-160 km/h:27.4 s
0-200 km/h:N/A
Top speed:200 km/h
Curb weight:1560 kg
Gross weight:2060 kg
Length:4900 mm
Width:1810 mm
Height:1440 mm
Fuel capacity:82 liters

Expert Assessment

Consumption
100%
Safety
95%
Performance
100%
Driveability
100%
Durability
95%
Maintenance
85%
Design
100%
Summary

Experts consider the 5-speed version to be the "real driver's car" within the W109 family, as the ZF gearbox transforms the character of the M189 engine making it more resilient and quieter at high speeds. While air suspension offers royal comfort, critics point out that this specificity is extremely rare and requires specialist maintenance, especially for the synchronization of the camshaft and seals of the pneumatic system. The aluminum engine requires special care with the cooling system to avoid thermal deformation, but when in perfect condition, it offers a driving experience that few 1966 cars can rival.

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