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1978 Mercedes-Benz 350 SE W116 (Automatic / 3 Gears) RWD [1972-1980]

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Overview

1978 Mercedes-Benz 350 SE W116 (Automatic / 3 Gears) RWD [1972-1980]

The 1978 Mercedes-Benz 350 SE with automatic transmission was one of the most refined limousines of the time, offering the power of the V8 engine in the legendary W116 chassis. This model uses the 3.5-liter (3499 cm3) M116 engine and the Bosch K-Jetronic injection system, which produces 195 PS / 192 hp / 143.5 kW . Daimler-Benz’s 3-speed automatic transmission was designed to offer smooth shifting and extreme durability, adapting to the high character of the S-Class. With a top speed of 200 km/h , this sedan was the industry standard for passive safety and acoustic comfort, remaining an icon of 70s German engineering.

Model:S-Class W116 Limousine
Production year:1978
Transmission:Automatic 3 speed
Starting price:€15,750
Engine size:3.5 L
Max torque:275 Nm
Cylinders alignment:V 8
Charge system:Gasoline pa turbocharger
Displacement:3499 cm3
Max power:195 PS / 192 hp / 143.5 kW
Fuel type:Gasoline
Fuel consumption:14.6 L/100km combined
Extra-urban:11.0-13.2 L/100km
City:17.2-20.6 L/100km
Emission standard:N/A
Body style:Sedan
0-80 km/h:7.6 s
0-100 km/h:11.3 s
0-160 km/h:29.3 s
0-200 km/h:102.1 s
Top speed:203 km/h
Curb weight:1675 kg
Gross weight:2195 kg
Length:4960 mm
Width:1870 mm
Height:1425 mm
Fuel capacity:96 liters

Expert Assessment

Consumption
50%
Safety
80%
Performance
90%
Driveability
92%
Durability
95%
Maintenance
66%
Design
100%
Summary

Experts rate the 350 SE with 3-speed gearbox as an extremely comfortable vehicle, where long gear ratios make good use of the V8 engine's elasticity. Although fuel consumption is high, especially in the city, the mechanical reliability of this configuration is legendary. The starting price in 1972 for the 350 SE was around 30,800 Deutsche Mark (approximately €15,750 at the fixed rate), a value that clearly positioned it above the six-cylinder variants. Today, this model is considered a great classic for long journeys, offering a sense of luxury that few cars of that era can rival.

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