A Brief Look at the Mercedes-Benz 280
Mercedes-Benz has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest cars in history. The Mercedes-Benz 280 model series is one of the most iconic series of cars from this premier automaker. The Mercedes-Benz 280 model was first produced in the late 1960s, and was initially a popular model in the W108 and W114 line of vehicles. Over the years, the 280 model evolved through several generations and went through numerous design changes.
The First Generation (1968-1972)
The first generation of the Mercedes-Benz 280 model series was initially produced from 1968 to 1972. It was produced as part of the W108 line of vehicles that were available as either a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan.
The model was powered by a 2.8-liter, six-cylinder engine, which was the first time Mercedes-Benz had offered a six-cylinder engine in a production car since World War II. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft with mechanical fuel injection, and produced 160 horsepower. Both the sedan and coupe had a top speed of around 118 miles per hour.
The 280 model was available with an automatic transmission or a four-speed manual transmission. The interior featured luxurious woodwork, leather seats, and a Becker Grand Prix radio.
The Second Generation (1973-1976)
The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz 280 was produced from 1973 to 1976 and was part of the W114 and W115 series of vehicles. The 280 model was still available as a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan and once again featured a 2.8-liter, six-cylinder engine.
However, the second-generation 280 model featured several improvements, including a Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection system which increased the power output to 185 horsepower. The second generation was also available with a five-speed manual transmission, which added to the car’s sports car appeal.
The Third Generation (1977-1985)
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz 280 model series was produced between 1977 and 1985. This model was part of the W123 series of vehicles, and was only available as a four-door sedan. The 280 model had an updated design, featuring a sleeker profile and a more aerodynamic front end.
The engine also went through an update and was fitted with an enlarged 2.8-liter overhead camshaft straight-six engine, which produced 142 horsepower and 155 lb.-ft. of torque. This model was also available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz 280 model series featured an improved interior that was more spacious and comfortable than previous generations. The dashboard was redesigned to be more ergonomic, and the seats were more comfortable.
The Fourth Generation (1984-1985)
The fourth and final generation of the Mercedes-Benz 280 model series was produced from 1984 to 1985 and was part of the W126 sedan and coupe line of vehicles. This was essentially an updated version of the previous W123 model.
The 280 model featured a 2.8-liter, six-cylinder engine, which produced 177 horsepower and 188 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine was fitted with a four-speed automatic transmission. The 280 model was only available as a four-door sedan.
RunBidSell Insights
The Mercedes-Benz 280 model series is a testament to the automaker’s commitment to producing high-performance, luxurious vehicles that exceed customers’ expectations. From the first generation 280 model, which introduced a six-cylinder engine to the Mercedes-Benz line-up, to the final generation, the 280 model proved to be a popular and enduring model.
Through the various generations, each new variation of the 280 model featured improved performance, updated designs, and enhanced interiors. The Mercedes-Benz 280 model series remains a classic in automotive history and continues to be highly sought after by car enthusiasts and collectors alike.