 1968 Mercedes-Benz 250C hardtop coupe (European version) |
The 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE were the sportiest non-SL Mercedes of this period. All were derived from the square-lined "New Generation" sedan first seen in 1967, differing mainly in a slightly shortened pillarless roof with two-inch-lower overall height.
Six-cylinder engines were featured throughout, but the U.S. 250C actually used a 2.8-liter unit to maintain power in the face of new performance-sapping federal safety and emissions rules.
Bosch electronic fuel injection was fitted
to all engines save the 250C (twin carburetors) and the twincam 280C; the
latter was the U.S. version of the injected European 280CE announced in 1971.
The 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE are less
coveted than earlier "S-class" coupes, but are nice newer collector cars
with few vices and most all the expected Mercedes virtues.
Pluses of the 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE:
- Mercedes cachet
- Pleasant handling
- Tight and solid for hardtops
- Most parts still readily available
Minuses of the 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE:
- Tend to be pricey even as used cars
- Styling rather dull for hardtops
- Performance not thrilling
- Limited back-seat space
Production of the 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE:
- 250C: 8,824 (1968-1972)
- 250CE: 21,787 (1968-1972)
- 250C: 11,768 ("2.8" 1969-1976)
- 280CE: 11,518 (1971-1976)
Specifications of the 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE:
Wheelbase, inches: 108.3
Length, inches: 184.5
Weight, pounds: 3,070-3,200Price, new: $6,625-$14,700
Engines for the 1968-1976 Mercedes-Benz 250/280C/CE:
| Type | Size | Horsepower | Years |
| ohc I-6 | 153 cid (2496 cc) | 130/146 | 1968-1976 |
| ohc I-6 | 153 cid (2496 cc) | 150/170 | 1968-1976 |
| ohc I-6 | 170 cid (2778 cc) | 157 | 1968-1972 |
| dohc I-6 | 168 cid (2746 cc) | 185/205 | 1971-1976 |
| dohc I-6 | 168 cid (2746 cc) | 120-180 | 1972-1976 |
Want more information about classic cars? See:
- Classic Cars
- Mercedes-Benz Sports Cars
- Muscle Cars
- Sports Cars
- Consumer Guide Auto
- Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search
