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1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W116 (Manuals / 4 Gears) RWD [1972-1980]

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Overview

1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W116 (Manuals / 4 Gears) RWD [1972-1980]

The 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE represents the injectable variant of the prestigious S-Class W116 series, which offered an excellent balance between performance and German engineering. This model is powered by the legendary M110 engine, a 2.8-liter (2746 cm3) DOHC unit with two bump axles, equipped with the Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical injection system. It produces 177 PS / 174 hp / 130 kW at 6000 engine rpm and a torque of 233 Nm . Unlike the 280 S with the carburetor, the SE version offered more power and more regular operation of the engine. Equipped with 4-speed manual transmission , this sedan reaches a top speed of 200 km/h and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds , remaining one of the safest and most advanced cars of the 70s.

Model:S-Class W116 Limousine
Production year:1978
Transmission:Manuale with 4 speed
Starting price:€14,050
Engine size:2.8 L
Max torque:233 Nm
Cylinders alignment:Line 6
Charge system:Gasoline pa turbocharger
Displacement:2746 cm3
Max power:177 PS / 174 hp / 130 kW
Fuel type:Gasoline
Fuel consumption:12.6 L/100km combined
Extra-urban:9.8-11.8 L/100km
City:14.4-17.3 L/100km
Emission standard:N/A
Body style:Sedan
0-80 km/h:6.6 s
0-100 km/h:9.9 s
0-160 km/h:27.6 s
0-200 km/h:119.6 s
Top speed:203 km/h
Curb weight:1610 kg
Gross weight:2130 kg
Length:4960 mm
Width:1870 mm
Height:1425 mm
Fuel capacity:96 liters

Expert Assessment

Consumption
58%
Safety
80%
Performance
82%
Driveability
90%
Durability
95%
Maintenance
64%
Design
100%
Summary

Experts rate the 280 SE as the "smart choice" within the W116 family, as the K-Jetronic system is much more reliable and more powerful than the Solex S variant carburetor. The M110 DOHC engine is known for its characteristic sound and high stability, although it requires periodic adjustment of the valve play. The starting price in 1972 for this model was around 27,500 Deutsche Mark (approximately €14,050), a value that reflected the world's first luxury and safety as the ABS system (offered as an option later). Today, this model remains highly sought after due to the relative simplicity of maintenance compared to the complex V8 variants.

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