All engines are fuel injected, 4-stroke, with electronically controlled fuel injection and air flow meter.
Figures 1-4 show cross-sections of various engines. The table below gives the model designations, model numbers, and engine type:
The model number and engine type are frequently referenced throughout the manual, particularly in the size and adjustment data tables (section 18), so it is important to memorize the relevant numbers.
The 280/280 SE and 380 SE models can optionally be equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission. The Type 450 SE is only equipped with an automatic transmission.
The front suspension is independent, with two wishbones and rubber-metal hinges, cylindrical springs and double-acting gas-filled shock absorbers.
Fig. 1. Longitudinal and transverse sections of the M110 carburetor engine.
Fig. 2. Longitudinal and cross-sectional views of the M110 engine with fuel injection.
Fig. 3. Cross-section of M116 and M117 engines.
Fig. 4. Longitudinal section.
The rear suspension is on Mercedes-Benz diagonal pendulum arms, providing stability and high driving characteristics. Widely spaced coil springs and double-acting gas-filled shock absorbers provide high driving safety. The engines on all types of cars are located at the front with rear-wheel drive. All engines have overhead camshafts.
The front and rear wheels are equipped with disc brakes with a dual-circuit drive system and brake booster. The parking brake acts on the rear wheels via levers and a cable. The cars are equipped as standard with a steering mechanism with a working screw-nut pair on circulating balls and a steering booster.