🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: W123 280CE Model Code: C123 (Coupe) Engine Code: M110 (inline-six, DOHC) Generation Generation: First Generation W123 (1976-1985) Codes Chassis Code: W123 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: W123 280CE owners, enthusiasts, independent repair shops Competitive Analysis Advantage: Actual Genuine Factory Manuals, not 3rd party; comprehensive coverage; cost savings on labor Key Features Authenticity: Official Full Factory Service Repair Manual Completeness: Complete official information for repair, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, or restoration Format Benefit: No shipping costs or wait times, immediate download access Cost Saving: Potential to save $50-$60 per hour on shop labor costs 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Applicable Years: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985 Body Styles: Coupe (CE) Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but implies comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive Engine Service and Repair Transmission: Comprehensive Transmission Service and Repair Brakes: Brake System Service and Repair Electrical: Complete Electrical System and Wiring Diagrams Suspension: Suspension System Service and Repair Steering: Steering System Service and Repair Cooling System: Cooling System Service and Repair Fuel System: Fuel Injection / Fuel System Service and Repair Emission Control: Emission System Service and Repair Climate Control: Heater and Air Conditioning Service and Repair Engine Management: Engine Control System Diagnostics and Repair Chassis Body: Chassis and Bodywork Repair and Maintenance Restraint System: Restraint System Information (e.g., Seatbelts) Interior: Interior Trim and Component Repair Drivetrain: Differential and Drive Axle Service and Repair Procedures Included Maintenance: General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication Troubleshooting: Advanced Troubleshooting Guide Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems Rebuilding: Rebuild procedures for major components (engine, transmission, etc.) Restoration: Detailed guidance for restoration projects Technical Depth Depth: Complete Official Factory Information (equivalent to professional technician knowledge) Diagnostics: Diagnostic procedures for identifying and correcting problems Illustrations: Includes all necessary illustrations, diagrams, and photos Detail Level: Highly detailed, including substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Compatibility: Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac Print Quality Printability: Printable without any restriction (individual pages or entire manual) Resolution: High Resolution Binding Type Type: Digital Download (printable) Paper Type Medium: Digital (printable, can be burned to CD-ROM) Usability Navigation: Easy to use, numbered table of contents, searchable function ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline-six, naturally aspirated gasoline Displacement: 2.8 Liters (2746 cc) Engine Code: M110 Valve Train: Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 2 valves per cylinder Performance Horsepower Approx: Approx. 185 PS (138 kW; 182 hp) (Euro spec, may vary slightly by year/market) Torque Approx: Approx. 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) (Euro spec, may vary slightly by year/market) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Fuel Injection (CIS) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Manual Transmission (typically) Optional Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional) Features Automatic Control: Hydraulic torque converter, electronically controlled (later models) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Style: 2-door Coupe (C123) Wheelbase Mm: 2710 mm (106.7 in) Length Mm: 4725 mm (186.0 in) Width Mm: 1735 mm (68.3 in) Height Mm: 1405 mm (55.3 in) Weights Curb Weight Kg: Approx. 1500 kg (3307 lbs) (depending on equipment) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Performance: While specific official ratings from modern bodies are scarce for this era, the W123 series was known for its robust build quality and passive safety features for its time. Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, Rear disc brakes (on most 280CE models), power assisted Passive Features Construction: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones Interior: Energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard Restraint: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts (front), 2-point seatbelts (rear, depending on market/options) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Typically an AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional upgraded sound systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control system available on some models. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by era; primarily mechanical and electrical systems with no modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Km: Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or annually, consult manual for exact figures. Transmission Fluid Change Km: Every 40,000 - 80,000 km (25,000 - 50,000 miles) for automatic transmissions, manual clutch fluid inspection. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (consult manual for precise viscosity and specification based on climate). Coolant: Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 spec or equivalent, ethylene glycol based). Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation). Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II or equivalent (e.g., MB 236.1 spec or successor). Known Issues Common Problems: Can include fuel distributor seal leaks (K-Jetronic), vacuum line deterioration, aging wiring harnesses, differential seal leaks, and potential rust in common areas. Preventive Measures: Regular inspection and replacement of rubber hoses,...
Approx. 1500 kg (3307 lbs) (depending on equipment)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Performance:
While specific official ratings from modern bodies are scarce for this era, the W123 series was known for its robust build quality and passive safety features for its time.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear disc brakes (on most 280CE models), power assisted
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (e.g., MB 236.1 spec or successor).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Can include fuel distributor seal leaks (K-Jetronic), vacuum line deterioration, aging wiring harnesses, differential seal leaks, and potential rust in common areas.
Preventive Measures:
Regular inspection and replacement of rubber hoses, vacuum lines, and seals is critical. Maintenance of the K-Jetronic system is key to smooth operation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering excellence, build quality, and innovation in automotive safety and luxury.
Model Evolution
W123 Development:
The W123 series was designed as a successor to the W114/W115, emphasizing durability, comfort, and sophisticated engineering.
280Ce Positioning:
The 280CE represented the sporty, luxurious coupe variant of the W123 line, offering a balance of performance and style.
Production
Production Period:
1976-1985 (for the W123 range, specific 280CE variants may have slightly different start/end dates within this window)
Key Markets:
Europe, North America, and other global markets.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Reputation:
The W123 chassis is widely regarded as one of the most durable and over-engineered vehicles ever produced by Mercedes-Benz, earning a reputation for longevity and reliability.