Description
The Mercedes-Benz 280 CE introduced in 1978 was the flagship coupé of the W123 range and represented one of the most refined personal luxury cars Mercedes-Benz produced during the late 1970s. Positioned above the 230 CE, it combined pillarless coupé elegance with the strongest petrol performance available in the W123 lineup, offering buyers a discreet yet highly capable alternative to larger luxury saloons.
Power came from a 2.8-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine fitted with mechanical fuel injection, producing approximately 185 horsepower. This engine gave the 280 CE strong performance for its class, with smooth acceleration and excellent mid-range torque. High-speed cruising was effortless, and the engine’s refinement made it particularly well suited to long motorway journeys. Buyers could choose between a four-speed manual gearbox and a three-speed automatic transmission, with the automatic being the more common choice due to its relaxed and refined character.
The W123 platform provided a robust and sophisticated foundation. The unitary body structure featured a strong passenger safety cell and carefully engineered crumple zones, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s emphasis on passive safety. Suspension consisted of double wishbones with coil springs at the front and a rear semi-trailing arm arrangement with coil springs, delivering a comfortable ride and predictable handling. Disc brakes were fitted at all four wheels, ensuring confident stopping power appropriate to the car’s performance.
Styling was a defining element of the 280 CE. The pillarless coupé body featured frameless side windows and a clean, flowing roofline, giving the car an elegant and airy appearance when the windows were lowered. Straight body lines, restrained chrome detailing and the upright grille mirrored the saloon’s design while lending the coupé a more personal and exclusive presence. The proportions were well balanced and understated, contributing to the model’s timeless appeal.
Inside, the cabin offered a high level of comfort and build quality. Seating was firm and supportive, designed for long-distance driving, and interior materials were chosen for durability and refinement rather than visual excess. Wood trim and higher-grade upholstery were commonly specified, reflecting the 280 CE’s position at the top of the range. The dashboard layout was logical and uncluttered, with clear instrumentation and excellent visibility.
On the road, the Mercedes-Benz 280 CE delivered a calm yet authoritative driving experience. The six-cylinder engine provided smooth, flexible power, while the chassis favoured stability and composure over sporting sharpness. Steering was accurate and reassuring, though relatively heavy at low speeds, and the car excelled at covering long distances with minimal effort or fatigue. It rewarded smooth, confident driving and felt particularly at home on fast, open roads.
The 280 CE appealed to buyers who wanted elegance and performance without ostentation. Typical owners included professionals and private individuals seeking a refined personal car that offered near S-Class performance in a more compact and discreet form. Production numbers were lower than those of the saloon, adding to the coupé’s exclusivity.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 280 CE from 1978 is regarded as one of the most desirable W123 coupés. It is valued for its powerful and smooth six-cylinder engine, pillarless design and exceptional build quality. As a car that perfectly captured Mercedes-Benz’s late-1970s philosophy of understated luxury and engineering excellence, the 280 CE remains a highly respected and sought-after classic.