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Introduction
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Market Position
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Positioning:
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High-quality executive sedan targeted at a discerning clientele seeking luxury, comfort, and engineering excellence.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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BMW 5 Series, Jaguar XJ6, Volvo 140/164 Series, Cadillac Sedan DeVille.
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Key Features
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Vehicle Highlights:
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Robust construction, refined inline-6 engines, sophisticated independent suspension, high level of interior appointments, safety features ahead of its time.
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Manual Value Proposition
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Value For Owner:
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Enables DIY owners to perform professional-level maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealer servicing, and ensuring proper vehicle longevity and performance.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine Systems:
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Engine mechanical (block, head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust
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Drivetrain Systems:
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Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveshaft, differential, axles
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Chassis Systems:
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Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, disc/drum configurations), wheels, tires
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Electrical Systems:
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Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, horn, power accessories, wiring diagrams
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Body And Interior:
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Exterior trim, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, body panels, chassis structure
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance Procedures:
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Routine inspections, oil and filter changes, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, lubrication, filter replacements
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Repair Procedures:
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Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and rebuilds, including detailed specifications and torque values
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Type:
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Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
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Engine Code:
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M130
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Displacement:
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2.8 Liters (2778 cc)
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Performance
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Horsepower Rating:
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Approx. 130-145 hp (gross, depending on specific market and tuning)
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Torque Rating:
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Approx. 170-180 lb-ft (gross, depending on specific market and tuning)
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Bosch D-Jetronic Fuel Injection
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Fuel Type:
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Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane minimum recommended)
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Cooling System
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
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Lubrication
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Oil Specification:
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API SG or equivalent, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 recommended for most climates (refer to manual for precise temp ranges).
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Oil Capacity:
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Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change
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Transmission
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Standard
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Transmission Type:
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4-Speed Manual Transmission
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Optional
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Transmission Type:
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3-Speed Automatic Transmission (optional, model 4G-Tronic)
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Features
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Automatic Features:
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Torque converter, hydraulic control, typically 3 forward gears and reverse.
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Fluid Specifications
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Automatic Transmission Fluid:
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Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for specific MB approval)
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Manual Transmission Fluid:
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GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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Crash Test Information:
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No formal crash test ratings from modern agencies, but designed with significant safety considerations for its era, including crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell.
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Active Features
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Braking System:
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Hydraulic disc brakes front, drum brakes rear (power assisted).
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Passive Features
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Seat Belts:
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Standard front seat belts, optional rear seat belts.
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Steering Column:
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Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy.
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Body Structure:
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Integrated safety cage, reinforced doors, impact-absorbing bumpers.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact interval.
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Tune Up Interval:
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Spark plugs, ignition points (if applicable), and filters every 20,000 - 30,000 miles.
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Transmission Service Interval:
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Automatic transmission fluid and filter typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles. Manual transmission fluid check at similar intervals, change less frequently.
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Fluid Specifications
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Brake Fluid:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
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Power Steering Fluid:
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ATF Dexron II or equivalent (if power steering equipped).
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Rubber bushings in suspension and chassis, fuel system components (injectors, fuel pump), ignition system components, exhaust system, climate control system components (if equipped).
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Corrosion Prone Areas:
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Wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, trunk lid edges.
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Technical Tips
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Engine Timing:
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Precise ignition timing and fuel mixture are critical for optimal performance and emissions; requires specialized tools for adjustment.
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D Jetronic Maintenance:
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Requires careful diagnosis of sensors, ECU, and injectors. Professional calibration may be needed for fuel injection system.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Legacy:
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Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, durability, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
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Model Evolution
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W114 W115 Lineage:
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The W114/W115 chassis represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the mid-size luxury sedan market, designed to be more accessible than the S-Class (W108/W109) while retaining core Mercedes values. The 280 model was positioned as a more powerful variant within this range, often featuring the inline-6 engine.
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Production
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Production Years For Model:
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1968-1976 (W114/W115 generation)
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Manufacturing Locations:
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Various Mercedes-Benz factories, primarily in Germany.
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