1972-1980 SE/SEL OverviewMercedes SE/SEL Overview (1972 - 1980)
W116
Tech Specs Summary
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- 103 - 140 mph
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- 7.4 - 17.0 seconds
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- 109 - 282 hp
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- 14.7 - 22.1 mpg
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- 3,549 - 4,266 lbs
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- 18.4 - 18.7 ft3
This generation of the Mercedes SE/SEL (W116) was produced by the German manufacturer Mercedes between 1972 - 1980. It's a front engined rear-wheel drive Sedan and came in 2 body styles, for example the 300 SD and 280 SEL. There are many power levels available, ranging from a 109 hp 3 L Inline 5 Turbo diesel engine all the way to a 282 hp 3.5 L V8 gasoline engine. It has double wishbone front suspension and semi-trailing arm rear suspension.
Performance Pick
If you're interested in performance, the best performance version of the SE/SEL is the Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 which scores 2.2★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for performance. With total power at 282 hp and a power/weight ratio of 15.12 lb/hp it has a top speed of 140 mph and gets to 62 mph in 7.4 seconds.
Practicality Pick
If you're more interested in practicality, then the Mercedes 300 SD is the best practical all-rounder with a score of 2.7★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for practicality. It has a range of 479 miles and can store 18.7 cubic feet of cargo.