Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures


To find tires for your Mercedes-Benz 280 see our Mercedes-Benz 280 Tires page.


  • The ideal Mercedes-Benz 280 tire pressures range from 24-41 PSI.
  • To find the perfect tire pressures to match your car's year, model, and chosen tires follow the link to our Tire Pressure Guides.

  • Our recommended Mercedes-Benz 280 tire is the 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P.
  • To see more information on Mercedes-Benz 280 tires see below, or follow the link to our Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Section.
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda Roadster (W113)

1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda Roadster (W113)



Mercedes-Benz 280 Tires


Mercedes-Benz 280 SE on 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P Tires

Mercedes-Benz 280 SE on 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P Tires


Mercedes 280 SE W111 Tires (1967–1971)


The 1967–1971 Mercedes-Benz W111 280SE is a special class (Sonderklasse) coupe and cabriolet variant of the W111 chassis, with a 2.8-liter engine with fuel injection (Einspritzung). An upgraded 3.5L engine became available in later 280 SE 3.5 Coupe and 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet variants.

Prior models of the Mercedes 280 SE Coupe and Cabriolet on the W111 chassis fitted a 7.35x14 crossply tire.  Later models came equipped with 185 R14 radial tires, which is currently the recommended size. If you still have 7.35x14 crossply tires, we suggest switching to the 185 R14 radial size.

The 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P is the best Mercedes 280 SE W111 tire in this size.

Some prefer wider tires, though we generally support keeping original tire sizes, we suggest fitting the 205/70VR14 Michelin XWX if you're looking for a wider tire.




Mercedes 280 SL Pagoda W113 Tires (1967–71)


The 1968–1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda W113 roadster, with its 2.8-liter fuel-injected (Einspritzung) engine and sporty styling, epitomises the "Sport Light" philosophy. Common configurations for W113 SL cars were coupé/roadsters with an optional removable hardtop and a soft top.

For the W113 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda, Longstone recommends the 185 HR 14 Michelin MXV-P tire.

Some choose to install wider tires on their W113. At Longstone, we usually recommend sticking with the original size. If you do decide to go wider, installing a premium classic tire that fits your car will lessen the downsides of having a larger tire.

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL on 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P Tires

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL on 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P Tires

The low profile alternative size to 185 R14 is 195/70 R14. The best low-profile 280 SL Pagoda tire is the 195/70VR14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36.


1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W108 on Classc Tires

1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W108


Mercedes 280 SEL, SE, & S W108 Tires (1968–1973)


Powered by a 2.8-liter engine and riding on the prestigious W108 chassis, the Mercedes-Benz 280 S, SE, and SEL W108 (1968–1973) are luxury saloons that belong to the "Special Class" (Sonderklasse). The 280 SE has fuel injection (Einspritzung), the SEL has a longer wheelbase ("Lang") for better rear legroom, and the S model is usually carbureted.

The Mercedes 280 S, SE, and SEL on the W108 chassis will operate best with a set of  185HR14 Michelin MXV-P tires.

We suggest fitting the Michelin XWX 205/70VR14 or the 205/70 WR 14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 if you're looking for a wider tire, as many customers do.

Michelin offered an upgraded wheel and tire package for the W108, with millimetric TRX wheels and 220/55 R390 Michelin TRX tires. Michelin is producing the 220/55 WR 390 TRX once again, and it remains the best 220/55 R390 tire for the W108.

for more information on Michelin TRX tires, see our 1984-1985 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin.


Mercedes 280, 280C and 280CE W114 (1968–1976)


The "New Generation" line of Mercedes-Benz executive saloons and coupes includes the 280, 280C, and 280CE W114 (1968–1976). These models, which had a 2.8-liter engine and a monocoque chassis, include the fuel-injected 280CE (Coupé Einspritzung), the 280, and 280C (Coupé).

On the W114 chassis, the Mercedes 280, 280C, and 280CE will perform excellently with the 185HR14 Michelin MXV-P.



1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 CE/8 W114 Tires

1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 CE/8 W114

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL R107 Tires

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL R107


Mercedes 280 SL, SLC R107, C107 (1974–1985)


The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL and 280 SLC  are inline-six-powered premium sports roadster and coupe variants of the R107 and C107 chassis. Known for their engineering excellence and dependability, the R107/C107 series are praised for their appearance, robust build, sophisticated safety systems, and improved driving dynamics.

185 R14 tires were standard on the Mercedes 280 SLC C107 and Mercedes 280 SL R107. We advise fitting the 185 HR 14 Michelin MXV-P in this size.

For a low-profile alternative size, our classic tire fitment guides recommend 205/70 R14. The 205/70VR14 Michelin XWX or 205/70 WR 14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 are the finest choices if you want a wider tire with a lower profile.

Michelin developed an upgraded wheel and tire package for the R107 and C107, with 220/55 R390 Michelin TRX tires on millimetric TRX wheels. The 220/55 WR 390 Michelin TRX remains the best 220/55 R390 tire for the Mercedes 280 SL/SLC.

To find out more about Michelin TRX tires, see our 1984-1985 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin.


Mercedes 280 S, SE & SEL W116 (1975–1980)


The Mercedes-Benz 280 S, SE, and SEL W116 (1975–1980) is a line of high-end saloon cars. The SE and SEL variants come equipped with fuel injection, while the  SEL has an expanded wheelbase for more back legroom, . Every model has a 2.8-liter engine mounted on the W116 chassis, which is renowned for being the first to use anti-lock brakes, and other pioneering safety features.

The Michelin MXV-P 185HR14 tire is the perfect fit for the W116 Mercedes-Benz 280 S, SEL, and SE.

If you desire wider tires, the  205/70VR14 Michelin XWX or the 205/70 WR 14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 are the best options.

Michelin also offered a millimetric upgrade for the W116, with millimetric wheels and 220/55 R390 Michelin TRX tires. If you have millimetric wheels on your 280 S, SE, or SEL, the ideal classic tire is the 220/55 WR 390 Michelin TRX.

To find out more about Michelin TRX tires, see our 1984-1985 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin.

Mercedes-Benz 280 SEL W116 Tires

Mercedes-Benz 280 SEL W116



Mercedes-Benz 280E W123 Tires

Mercedes-Benz 280E W123


Mercedes 280, 280E, C, CE and TE W123 (1975–86)


Executive automobiles in the Mercedes-Benz 280, 280E, 280C, 280CE, and 280TE W123 model line include saloons (280 and 280E), coupes (280C and 280CE), and estates (280TE). The "E" prefix on these cars denotes fuel injection, and all are powered by the same 2.8-liter engine. The W123 series is one of Mercedes-Benz's most popular models, renowned for its comfort, cutting-edge safety features, and durability.

Fitted from 1975 to 1977, the 195/70HR14 Veith 446 was the original W123 Mercedes 280 and 280 E tire; it is no longer manufactured. They also sold the PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 and the Michelin XVS in 1977. The Michelin XVS is no longer produced in the proper 195/70 R14 size.

Today, the best W123 tire is the 195/70VR14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36. Not only is the PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 the only authentic classic tire available in the 195/70 R14 size today, but it also has the added benefit of being an original equipment tire, fitted to the W123 in period.

Michelin offered a millimetric upgrade for the W123, with TRX wheels and either 190/65 R390 Michelin TRX or 200/60 R390 Michelin TRX tires. Both sizes are available today, and both would comfortably fit your W123.

For more information about Michelin TRX wheels and tires, see our 1984-1985 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin.




Mercedes 280 S, SE, and SEL W126 (1979–1991)


Luxury saloons in the Mercedes-Benz W126 range include the 280 S, SE, and SEL  (1979-1991). The "S" designates a carbureted engine, the "E" variants have fuel injection. The SEL has a longer wheelbase for more back legroom. All versions have a 2.8-liter engine and are renowned for their exceptional comfort and durability in addition to their ground-breaking safety features including driver airbags and enhanced crumple zones.

The Mercedes-Benz 280S, 280SE and 280SEL all fitted 195/70 R14 tires as OE. In this size we are happy to recommend the 195/70VR14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36.

Some W126 cars fitted 205/65 R15 tires as an optional upgrade. This size is yet to come into the classic range, if you require these tires a modern tire shop will stock this size.

1981 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W126 S Class

1981 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W126 S Class



Michelin 14F Offset Valve Inner Tube

Michelin 14F Offset Valve Inner Tube


Mercedes 280 White Inner Tubes


Our period fitment guides inform which Mercedes-Benz 280 models fitted tube-type wheels that require inner tubes, and which models fitted tubeless wheels, suitable to be run without inner tubes. By 1977, almost all new 280 models are listed as tubeless, models produced in the early 70's may still have tube-type wheels. See our fitment guides and find your car's year and model to find out the wheel-type.

Wherever possible we recommend Michelin's inner tubes over any others. In our extensive experience with inner tubes, Michelin tubes are the strongest, with far less failiures than any other inner tube brand.

The correct inner tube for a Mercedes-Benz 280 on 185 R14 tires, 195/70 R14 tires, and 205/70 R14 tires is the Michelin 14F.

Tires with a profile below 70% (e.g., 220/55 WR 390 Michelin TRX) must not fit inner tubes.


Mercedes 280 White Wall Tires


185R14 tires were standard on the majority of Mercedes 280 models. For drivers that want the white wall aesthetic and don't want to sacrifice any performance, Michelin now produces the 185 R 14 Michelin MXV Whitewall tire.

Since the carcass construction of the classic Michelin white wall tires is ideally adapted to Mercedes 280 chassis, Longstone can confidently encourage their installation on all classic Mercedes-Benz 280 vehicles fitting 185 R14 tires. They also look fantastic!

Mercedes-Benz Whitewall Tire - 185 R 14 Michelin MXV Whitewall

Mercedes-Benz Whitewall Tire - 185 R 14 Michelin MXV Whitewall


Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressure & Fitment Guides


With the development of modern rubber technologies, enhanced safety protocols, and advanced tire production techniques, there are questions about the relevance of old tire pressure guidelines. To address these concerns, we reached out to our contact at Pirelli, who provided the following insights.

"Our philosophy is to reproduce as closely as possible the original tire characteristics using new processes and materials thus to maintain the handling of the vehicle the same. This means, yes we maintain the original handbook pressures.”


1982 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

Model Tire Size Tire Pressure (F/R) PSI Tire Pressure (F/R) PSI Load/Speed
280, 280C, 280E, 280CE (until 1976) (114 series) 185 R14 29/34 N/A
280, 280C, 280CE, 280E (from 1976) (123 series) 195/70 R14
190/65 R390, 200/60 R390
29/32
28/30
34/36
NA
280TE (123 series) 195/70 R14
190/65 R390, 200/60 R390
29/32 (<100mph), 34/36 (>100mph)
28/36
29/36(<100mph), 34/41(>100mph)
N/A
280S, 280SE (116 series) 185 R14, 205/70 R14
220/55 R390
30/34
26/29
35/38(S), 34/36 (L), 38/41 (LS)
N/A
280SE 3-5 (108 series) 185 R14, 205/70 R14
220/55 R390
32/36
26/29
N/A
280 SL, SLC (107 series) 185 R14, 205/70 R14
220/55 R390
32/36
26/29
N/A
1982 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin
1971-1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Dunlop

1971-1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Dunlop

1971-1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Dunlop

1971-1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Dunlop

1972 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1972 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1977 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1977 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1984-1985 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1984-1985 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1984 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1984 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1984 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1984 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1987 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1987 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Michelin

1988 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1988 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1988 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli

1988 Mercedes-Benz 280 Tire Pressures by Pirelli