The Mercedes-Benz W116 series, produced from 1972 to 1979, represented a significant leap forward in luxury and safety for the German automaker. The 280 SE, specifically manufactured between February 1976 and March 1978, occupied a crucial middle ground within the W116 lineup. Positioned above the entry-level 280 S and below the flagship 350 SE/SEL, the 280 SE offered a compelling blend of performance, refinement, and relative affordability for the era. It was a key model in establishing the S-Class as the benchmark for full-size luxury sedans, particularly in North America and Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SE (W116) |
| Type (Engine) | 280 SE (177 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 1976 |
| End of production | March, 1978 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 233 Nm @ 4500 rpm (171.85 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 110 E 28 / 110.985 |
| Engine displacement | 2746 cm3 (167.57 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4960 mm (195.28 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2860 mm (112.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 195/75 R14Rear wheel tires: 195/75 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6J x 14Rear wheel rims: 6J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 280 SE was powered by the M110 E 28 engine, a 2.8-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine, a descendant of the long-running M110 family, featured a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It utilized Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, a sophisticated system for its time that improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to carburetors. The engine produced 177 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 233 Nm (171.85 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and two valves per cylinder contributed to its smooth operation and respectable power output. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the engine bay, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the M110 was a 4-speed automatic transmission, providing comfortable and effortless cruising. This transmission was known for its smoothness, but wasn’t particularly quick-shifting by modern standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 280 SE Automatic offered a distinctly relaxed driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the 177 hp engine provided adequate power for comfortable highway cruising and city driving. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 10.7 seconds, which was competitive for a luxury car of its size in the mid-1970s. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did sap some performance compared to the available 5-speed manual. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and comfort rather than outright acceleration. The car felt substantial and planted on the road, thanks to its relatively heavy weight and well-tuned suspension. Steering was precise, aided by hydraulic power assistance, but lacked the directness of more modern systems.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 280 SE came standard with a generous array of features for the time, including power steering, power brakes, automatic climate control, and a high-quality radio. The interior was typically upholstered in leather or high-grade vinyl, with wood trim adorning the dashboard and door panels. Optional extras included sunroof, air conditioning (often considered essential), power windows, and upgraded audio systems. The 280 SE generally featured a more restrained interior aesthetic compared to the higher-end 350 SE/SEL, with fewer chrome accents and a focus on understated elegance.
Chassis & Braking
The W116 chassis featured independent suspension all around, with double wishbones at the front and a wishbone setup at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 280 SE utilized ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear, offering adequate stopping power for its weight class. Power-assisted steering was standard, making maneuvering the large sedan relatively easy. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 280 SE was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and robust build quality. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the engine’s performance and that the car felt somewhat heavy and cumbersome. Compared to the 280 S, the 280 SE offered a noticeable performance upgrade thanks to its larger engine. Compared to the 350 SE/SEL, the 280 SE was more fuel-efficient and slightly more affordable, but lacked the flagship model’s prestige and additional features. Fuel economy was typical for a large luxury car of the era, averaging around 18.8 US mpg.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz W116 280 SE remains a sought-after classic car today. The M110 engine is known for its durability and reliability, although regular maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly. Parts availability is generally good, although some components can be expensive. The 280 SE’s combination of luxury, comfort, and build quality has ensured its enduring appeal among collectors and enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command respectable prices in the used car market, reflecting their status as a significant piece of automotive history. The W116 series, and the 280 SE in particular, laid the foundation for the modern S-Class, cementing Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for building some of the world’s finest luxury automobiles.
