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Mercedes W108 engine options

Different engine types for the Mercedes-Benz W108 (Sonderklasse saloon) from 1965 to 1972

Built from 1965 to 1972, the W108 is shown here in eight petrol versions, from the 250S to the 300SEL 3.5. The M108, M129, M130 and M189 in-line six-cylinder engines cover 130 to 170 hp, fed by two carburettors on the S models and by mechanical injection on the SE and SEL. Late in its career, the 3.5-litre M116, the first V8 of the generation, reaches 200 hp with D-Jetronic injection. For compatible parts, start from your W108's engine code rather than its badge alone.

VersionPeriodEngine codeDisplacement (L)Power (hp)FuelCarburettor / InjectionCylinders / ValvesTiming driveTorque (Nm)Remarks
250S1965–1969M1082.5130Petrol2 carburettorsInline-6 / 12Chain203 @ 4000Entry-level model
250SE1965–1968M1292.5150PetrolMechanical injectionInline-6 / 12Chain216 @ 4200
280S1967–1972M1302.8140Petrol2 carburettorsInline-6 / 12Chain216 @ 3500
280SE1967–1972M1302.8160PetrolMechanical injectionInline-6 / 12Chain240 @ 4000
280SEL1967–1972M1302.8160PetrolMechanical injectionInline-6 / 12Chain240 @ 4000Long-wheelbase version
300SE1965–1967M1893.0170PetrolMechanical injectionInline-6 / 12Chain247 @ 4000
300SEL1965–1967M1893.0170PetrolMechanical injectionInline-6 / 12Chain247 @ 4000Long-wheelbase version
280SE 3.5 / 300SEL 3.51969–1972M1163.5200PetrolElectronic injection (D-Jetronic)V8 / 16Chain286 @ 4000First V8 of the generation

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