1974 Mercedes-Benz W114 280 review from North America
"A divine statement of post-war love and hope"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water pump replacement at 120,000 miles.
Occasional stranding from normal service items.
Seat bolts have broken.
Radio emitted a puff of blue smoke after 2 days of ownership.
Transmission leaks at 130,000.
Heating and cooling systems are not very good.
General comments?
This is an interesting automobile. We have a love/hate relationship. I love her - sometimes she hates me. At the end of the day though, this car is reliable, comfortable and safe.
The engineering of this automobile is incredible. For instance, the valve cover weighs 10lbs!
She drinks prodigious amounts of fuel (this is the 4 barrel carburetor model). But when you consider the other sedans of this comfort, size and power that were manufactured in this era (with an American point of view), this car could be considered positively fuel-efficient.
This car has taught me quite a few things. It taught me what a 'hack' mechanic I was. Working on a Mercedes is not like working on an old Chevy. It is a methodical experience... somewhat symphonic. Chevy's are like 3 chord rock.
She gets me to where I want to go in style, with comfort, with power, a wonderful smell and she teaches me.
What more could you ever want in a car?
Recommended Reviews:
  | Classy, quirky, and fun to drive |
  | A stunning yet practical classic |
All Mercedes-Benz W114 reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8 six Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 115000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 140000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet C10 |
| Date of Entry | 25th July, 2003 |