1971 Mercedes-Benz W108 280SE review from Australia and New Zealand
"Built to last and still running extremely well"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front shocks replaced - LH binding, rear require replacement. Just due to old age.
Some cam wear, but not problematic.
Replaced RR wheel bearing due to rumble.
Drivers seat slightly unstable.
General comments?
These are a great looking and reliable car. They are not as collectible as the 280SE (W111) Coupes and Cabriolets, but then they are about 10-15% of the price.
Parts are available, but will cost an arm and a leg. They are simple enough to be tinkered with by a competent home mechanic.
Automatic 4-speed (MB's first, apparently based on a 1939 Packard design) is pretty primitive. Doesn't like down shifting under load and doesn't like shifting up when 3rd is selected (revs quite alarmingly - if you don't realise this is normal).
No torque converter, but has a 'fluid flywheel' (fluid coupling) 1st gear engaged until about 15 km/h is reached, or about 1 sec when 2nd is engaged. This also is normal.
Luxury cars when released, so are relatively uncommon. I love it.
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| A practical classic |
|
| 1970 - W108 280S 2.8 litre carburettor The best quality even if compared with today's cars |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1971 |
| Year of manufacture | 1971 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8 petrol Mechanical PI Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 106000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 128000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 12th March, 2005 |