The Mercedes-Benz W116 series, produced from 1972 to 1980, represented a significant leap forward in luxury and safety for the German automaker. Within this generation, the 280 SEL, specifically the variant equipped with the M110 E 28 engine and automatic transmission, occupied a crucial middle ground in the lineup. Production of this specific configuration ran from October 1973 to February 1976. It offered a balance of performance and refinement, appealing to buyers who desired the prestige of the S-Class without the higher cost and complexity of the top-tier models like the 450 SEL 6.9. The W116 established many of the safety features that would become standard in luxury cars for decades to come, and the 280 SEL automatic was a popular choice for discerning customers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SEL (V116) |
| Type (Engine) | 280 SEL (185 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 1973 |
| End of production | February, 1976 |
| 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 | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 185 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 238 Nm @ 4500 rpm (175.54 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 110 E 28 / 110.983 |
| 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 | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| 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 | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2165 kg (4773.01 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 | 5060 mm (199.21 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2960 mm (116.54 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 | Trailing arm |
| 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 heart of the 280 SEL was the M110 E 28 engine, a 2.8-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a development of the earlier M110 series, known for its smoothness and durability. It featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, employing a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Fuel delivery was handled by Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection, a sophisticated system for its time that improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to carburetors. The engine produced 185 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 238 Nm (175.54 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, providing smooth and relatively quick shifts. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it was well-suited to the engine’s characteristics and the car’s intended role as a comfortable cruiser.
Driving Characteristics
The 280 SEL automatic offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.7 seconds, but it wasn’t particularly quick compared to other S-Class variants like the 350 or 450 SEL. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards relaxed cruising, prioritizing smoothness over outright performance. The inline-six engine delivered its power in a linear fashion, making it easy to modulate and providing ample torque for everyday driving. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic sacrificed some responsiveness, but it significantly enhanced the car’s ease of use, especially in city traffic. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, providing a plush ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 280 SEL automatic came standard with a generous array of features for the era. These included power steering, power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, central locking, 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 air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The 280 SEL occupied a mid-range position in the W116 lineup, offering a good balance of features and price. It was positioned above the base 280 S but below the more luxurious and powerful 350 SEL and 450 SEL models.
Chassis & Braking
The W116 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 SEL utilized ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, offering excellent stopping power. Power steering was standard, making the car easy to maneuver, even at low speeds. The rear brakes were discs, a feature that distinguished it from some earlier Mercedes-Benz models. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 280 SEL automatic 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 its performance was not as exhilarating as that of the larger-engined S-Class models. Fuel economy, at 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg), was typical for a luxury car of its size and era. Compared to the 350 SEL, the 280 SEL offered similar levels of luxury and comfort at a lower price point, but with less power. The 280 SEL was also more economical to run than the 350 SEL, making it an attractive option for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz W116 280 SEL automatic has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. The M110 engine is known for its longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. While maintenance can be costly due to the car’s age and complexity, parts availability is generally good. In the used car market, the W116 280 SEL is a sought-after classic, appreciated by enthusiasts for its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and historical significance. It represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and design, and remains a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
