The Mercedes-Benz W123 280 TE, produced from September 1977 to April 1978, represents a significant iteration within the highly successful W123 series. This variant, a five-door station wagon (estate) designated the S123, combined a robust inline-six cylinder engine with a four-speed manual transmission, offering a blend of practicality, performance, and luxury. The 280 TE occupied a premium position within the W123 lineup, positioned above the four-cylinder models and the 230E, but below the later 300TD turbodiesel. It was aimed at buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped vehicle capable of both comfortable long-distance travel and hauling substantial cargo.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 280 TE is the M 110 E 28 engine, a 2.8-liter (2746 cm³) inline-six cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, internally designated as 110.984, is a naturally aspirated powerplant renowned for its smoothness and durability. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, employing a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The M 110 E 28 utilizes Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection, a mechanical fuel injection system known for its precision and reliability. This system delivers fuel directly to the intake ports, optimizing combustion efficiency.
The engine produces 177 horsepower (hp) at 6000 rpm and 234 Newton-meters (172.59 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s bore measures 86 mm (3.39 in) and the piston stroke is 78.8 mm (3.1 in), resulting in a compression ratio of 8.7:1. The engine requires 7 liters (7.4 US qt, 6.16 UK qt) of oil and 10 liters (10.57 US qt, 8.8 UK qt) of coolant for optimal operation. The four-speed manual transmission, a robust unit designed to handle the engine’s torque, provides a direct connection between the engine and the rear wheels.
Transmission Details
The 280 TE’s four-speed manual transmission was a standard offering, providing drivers with full control over gear selection. While an automatic transmission was available as an option on other W123 models, the 280 TE was primarily offered with the manual gearbox, catering to enthusiasts who preferred a more engaging driving experience. The gear ratios were optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall fourth gear designed for comfortable highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 280 TE, equipped with the manual transmission, offered a spirited driving experience for its time. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.2 seconds, while 0-60 mph was achieved in around 9.7 seconds. The top speed was rated at 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The inline-six engine delivered smooth, linear power throughout the rev range, making it easy to modulate throttle and maintain control. The manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s capabilities, providing precise gear changes and a direct connection to the drivetrain. Compared to the lower-powered four-cylinder W123 models, the 280 TE offered significantly more performance, particularly in overtaking situations and when carrying a full load. However, it wasn’t as overtly sporty as some contemporary rivals, prioritizing comfort and refinement over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 280 TE was well-equipped for its era, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and quality. Standard features included comfortable cloth upholstery, wood trim on the dashboard and door panels, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. Power steering was standard, enhancing maneuverability, and disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing excellent stopping power. Optional extras included leather upholstery, air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The S123 body style itself offered a large cargo area, accessible through a rear tailgate, making it ideal for families and those with active lifestyles. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample storage space and comfortable seating for five passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The W123 chassis featured independent suspension all around, with double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 280 TE, being a higher-specification model, typically featured thicker stabilizer bars compared to the base models, further enhancing stability and reducing body roll. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing consistent and reliable stopping power. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, offering precise control and feedback. The 280 TE rode on 195/70 R14 tires mounted on 6J x 14 inch steel wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 280 TE was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its spaciousness, comfort, and refined driving experience. The inline-six engine was lauded for its smoothness and durability, while the station wagon body style was appreciated for its practicality. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, with the 280 TE consuming approximately 17.2 l/100 km (13.7 US mpg, 16.4 UK mpg) in urban driving and 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg) on the open road. Compared to the 230E, the 280 TE offered significantly more performance, but at a higher price point. The later 300TD turbodiesel provided even greater fuel economy and torque, but lacked the 280 TE’s smooth, refined engine character. The 280 TE appealed to buyers who prioritized a balance of performance, luxury, and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Engine Model/Code | M 110 E 28 / 110.984 |
| Engine Displacement | 2746 cm³ (167.57 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 6 (Inline) |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in) |
| Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Maximum Power | 177 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 234 Nm (172.59 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drive Wheels | Rear wheel drive |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs) |
| Maximum Weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 lbs) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal, 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4725 mm (186.02 in) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2795 mm (110.04 in) |
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz W123 280 TE remains a highly sought-after classic car today. The M 110 engine is renowned for its longevity and reliability, with many examples still running strong after decades of service. While maintenance can be costly due to the age of the vehicle and the complexity of the K-Jetronic fuel injection system, the 280 TE offers a rewarding ownership experience. The S123 body style is particularly desirable, offering a unique combination of practicality and style. Well-maintained examples command premium prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and the reputation of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The 280 TE stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and its commitment to building durable, high-quality vehicles.
