The Mercedes-Benz W123, produced from July 1975 to April 1978, represents a pivotal generation in the lineage of the iconic Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Positioned as a mid-size luxury sedan, the W123 succeeded the W114 and W115 models, establishing a new benchmark for safety, build quality, and refinement. The 280 E variant, equipped with a 2.8-liter inline-six engine producing 177 horsepower, was a flagship model within the range, offering a compelling blend of performance and comfort. The W123 was primarily sold in Europe, but also found a significant market in North America and other parts of the world, becoming renowned for its durability and longevity.
Mercedes-Benz W123 280 E: A Legacy of Engineering
The W123 series marked a significant advancement in automotive engineering for Mercedes-Benz. It was the first series to feature crumple zones, enhancing crash safety, and incorporated numerous improvements to the chassis and suspension for a more comfortable ride. The 280 E, in particular, benefited from the sophisticated M110 engine, known for its smooth operation and robust construction. This model appealed to buyers seeking a premium sedan with a focus on long-term reliability and a refined driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the W123 280 E is its 2746 cc (167.57 cu. in.) M 110 E 28 inline-six cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivers 177 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 234 Nm (172.59 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine features multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its efficient operation and respectable power output. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the 280 E achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.3 seconds. Its maximum speed is rated at 195 km/h (121.17 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 8.3 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.3 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is rated at 17.1 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg) in urban conditions and 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) on the open road.
Design & Features
The W123 280 E is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design that embodies the Mercedes-Benz aesthetic of the 1970s. Its robust construction and attention to detail are evident in its clean lines and solid build quality. The interior is designed for comfort and practicality, offering seating for five passengers. Key features include hydraulic power steering, disc brakes on all four wheels, and a relatively spacious cabin for its class. The W123 prioritized passenger safety with its advanced (for the time) crumple zone technology. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4725 mm (186.02 in.) in length, 1786 mm (70.31 in.) in width, and 1438 mm (56.61 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2795 mm (110.04 in.). The curb weight is 1475 kg (3251.82 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W123 |
| Generation | W123 |
| Type (Engine) | 280 E (177 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 1975 |
| End of production | April, 1978 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.1 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 234 Nm @ 4500 rpm (172.59 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 110 E 28 / 110.984 |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1475 kg (3251.82 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 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 | 1438 mm (56.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2795 mm (110.04 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14 |
The Mercedes-Benz W123 280 E remains a highly sought-after classic car, appreciated for its engineering excellence, timeless design, and enduring reliability. It represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to building durable, comfortable, and safe automobiles.
