W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
I'm considering getting a 280E but I'd like to know what kind of fuel economy I could expect. Also how reliable and how many miles could I expect one to last?
Did they come with 3 or 4 speed automatics?
RE: W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
The are one of the best inline 6s MB ever produced. This engine (M110?) is known the world over for it's power, efficiency, smoothness and duribility.
In Saudi Arabia, about a third of the W126s use this engine, even though gas is cheaper than water there. This is due to the qualities of this wonderful engine (and the fact it was the only W126 offered in a 5 spd).
This is THE top of the line engine in the MB range and the top gasser. It produces the most power as well. They always come with 4 speed autos.
As far as gas mileage, expect roughly 23 mpg avg if you tend to do more highway mileage.
RE: W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
Having had a number of m110 cars I'll chime in here.
The best economy I've experienced comes from the '78 280slc w/ 4 speed manual at a steady 140 kph coming in at 24mpg.
The '82 280te rountinely gets between 19 and 20mpg.
The '80 280e (euro, RIP) got as high as 22 mpg hwy, and about 18 city.
The '83 280se would see a 18-20 mpg.
Of course, economy suffers the more you put your foot into it. The old 280e would drop below 17 if I was having a good time. ;)
I personally would avoid the US spec m110 unless it is rather low mileage. The euro spec motor just sings and is a joy to drive. The higher compression ratio, different cams, and lack of emissions equip. just make it such a nicer driving machine. Coupling it with a manual gearbox makes it a true joy to drive.
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RE: W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
I've found one with under 100K miles on it but I haven't gone out to look at it. Looks nice from the photos. US spec model. While I like the Euro spec cars, I have a 230CE, I'm not too happy for their preference of premium fuels. I've had to significantly retard my timing in the 230 to run RUG. It even pings on US premium with the timing set to spec if I really floor it. OM suggests using 98 octane fuel.[:0]
I like the 123 model for their superb materials, fit and finish which you just don't find on any of the newer MB's. With the price of diesel, I can't justify driving my 123 diesel. I'm lucky to get 25 mpg's out of it. If the 280 is anything as smooth as a 230 then I think I'm set. Any weak areas in regards to the engine, things to be concerned of, such as timing chains?
RE: W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
Quote:
lietuviai - 1/10/2006 9:40 AM
If the 280 is anything as smooth as a 230 then I think I'm set. Any weak areas in regards to the engine, things to be concerned of, such as timing chains?
RE: W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
I have a UK 280 CE and the engine is a peach - and with 185bhp it really shifts. Engine is very robust, but thirsty and they can use oil as they get older. I get around 22mpg (imperial gallons). My ignition is retarded to use 95 RON unleaded (spec is 98 RON), if US fuel is lower than this I suggest using an additive to boost octane. My auto is 4 speed, but only uses 1st if you floor it from standstill so is effectively a 3 speed in normal usage. The rear wheels spin in second anyway!
RE: W123 280E owners, what kind of fuel economy do you get?
So since 1 gallon UK = 1.2 gallons US, then 22 mp/uk gallon = about 18.33 mp/US gallon if my math is correct.
How many HP does the engine have in US spec? 185 HP in Euro spec is outstanding. Few new cars have that much for the same displacement.
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