Mercedes-Benz - S 280 (1979)

Speed, luxury, and classic German engineering converge in the Mercedes‑Benz S 280. Launched in 1979, this grand sedan has earned a reputation for unsurpassed comfort and timeless style. Its appeal is felt both in the past and the present, so questions like “Mercedes‑Benz S 280 price” and “what is a 1979 Mercedes‑Benz S 280 worth?” often sit at the top of buyers’ minds. While the exact numbers differ across markets and conditions, understanding the original 1979 price point and how the vehicle has depreciated over time can help you gauge whether a particular S 280 is worth the price tag it carries today.

Key Specifications

• Engine: 3.0-liter inline‑6, 135 hp (90 kW), 249 lb‑ft (34 Nm) of torque
• Transmission: 4‑speed automatic (ZF 45–355SA5) or optional 3‑speed Borg–Wagner manual
• Fuel Type: Gasoline (premium or regular, depending on region)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 198.4 in (5,041 mm)
  • Width: 75.4 in (1,915 mm)
  • Height: 58.5 in (1,488 mm)
  • Wheelbase: 120.9 in (3,063 mm)
• Weight: Approx. 4,300 lb (1,950 kg) curb weight
• Drive Layout: Rear‑wheel drive
• Safety Features: Dual front airbags, anti‑lock brakes (ABS), power‑assist steering, optional power‑levers and brakes depending on trim level

The Mercedes‑Benz S 280 1979 price at launch was around €14,000 to €15,000 in Europe, which translates to approximately $20,000–$22,000 in the United States when adjusted for inflation. Modern owners consider the vehicle’s provenance, mileage, and mechanical condition more importantly than the raw numbers from its original purchase price.

Depreciation Insights

All vehicles lose value after purchase, but classic models often see a slower depreciation curve compared to modern cars when handled with care. The Mercedes‑Benz S 280 depreciation can be summarized as follows:

• First year: Typically loses 15–20% of its initial value.
• Years 2–4: A further 5–7% loss annually as the model becomes more established.
• Beyond five years: Value loss slows dramatically, often stabilizing around 5% per year, especially if the vehicle has been well maintained.

In practice, a well‑maintained 1979 S 280 that hasn't seen major mechanical changes can retain 60–70% of its original price after 20 years. That said, condition, mileage, and heritage (like being a luxury estate or roadster variant) all influence the specific depreciation rate.

Market Compar