Description
The Mercedes-Benz 280 TE was the range-topping petrol estate in the W123 lineup and represented the most refined and capable combination of performance, practicality and build quality available in the series. Introduced in the late 1970s, the 280 TE paired the smoothness and power of a fuel-injected six-cylinder engine with the versatility of the T-Modell estate body, making it a true all-rounder for buyers who wanted space without sacrificing refinement.
Power came from a 2.8-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine equipped with Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection. Producing approximately 185 horsepower, this engine gave the 280 TE a significant performance advantage over all four-cylinder petrol and diesel estates in the range. Acceleration was strong for an estate car of the period, and sustained high-speed cruising was effortless, even when fully loaded. The engine was valued for its smoothness, quiet operation and strong mid-range torque, characteristics that suited both long-distance touring and everyday use. Buyers could choose between a four-speed manual gearbox and a three-speed automatic transmission, with the automatic being particularly popular in this model.
The W123 estate chassis was engineered with durability and load-carrying ability in mind. In addition to the standard W123 suspension layout of double wishbones at the front and a semi-trailing arm rear axle, the 280 TE was fitted as standard with hydropneumatic self-levelling rear suspension. This system automatically maintained correct ride height regardless of load, ensuring consistent handling, braking performance and comfort whether the car was lightly laden or carrying passengers, luggage or towing a trailer. Disc brakes at all four wheels provided strong and dependable stopping power, appropriate to the car’s performance and weight.
Styling of the Mercedes-Benz 280 TE followed the restrained, functional design language that defined the W123 range. The estate body featured a long roofline, large rear cargo area and near-vertical tailgate, maximising interior space and practicality. Despite its utilitarian shape, the design retained a dignified and professional appearance, with subtle chrome detailing and balanced proportions. Externally, the 280 TE differed little from lesser estate models, reinforcing the understated nature of the car and the brand’s emphasis on engineering substance over visual display.
Inside, the cabin combined the solid construction of the W123 saloon with the flexibility of an estate. Seating was firm, supportive and designed for long-distance comfort, while interior materials were chosen for durability rather than luxury excess. The rear load area was flat and spacious, with a low loading sill and a wide opening tailgate, making it easy to carry bulky items. With the rear seats folded, the 280 TE offered a level of cargo capacity that rivalled many commercial vehicles, yet retained the comfort and refinement of a premium executive car.
On the road, the 280 TE delivered a driving experience that was unusually composed for an estate car of its era. The six-cylinder engine provided smooth, confident performance, while the self-levelling suspension ensured stability and comfort even under heavy load. Steering was accurate and reassuring, favouring stability over sharpness, and the car excelled at long motorway journeys. It rewarded smooth, confident driving and felt particularly at home covering large distances at speed.
The Mercedes-Benz 280 TE was aimed at buyers who needed space but refused to compromise on performance or refinement. Typical owners included professionals, families with towing or load-carrying needs, and customers who wanted a discreet yet highly capable vehicle. It was also popular in markets where estates were valued as premium multi-purpose cars rather than purely utilitarian vehicles.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 280 TE is regarded as one of the most desirable W123 variants. It is valued for its powerful and smooth six-cylinder engine, sophisticated self-levelling suspension and exceptional build quality. As a petrol estate that combines performance, comfort and practicality in equal measure, the 280 TE stands as one of the finest examples of the W123 philosophy and a benchmark for executive estate cars of its era.