Mercedes Benz 280
187 registered in New Zealand · 1966–2005 · 67% from Germany
The Mercedes Benz 280 is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 187 registered across model years 1966 to 2005. Most are petrol-powered saloons with a 2.8L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the 280.
Fuel Types
Mercedes Benz 280 fuel type breakdown: PETROL 98%, DIESEL 2%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Mercedes Benz 280 vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Mercedes Benz 280 fleet age profile: 1969: 22, 1970: 15, 1971: 11, 1974: 18, 1979: 10.
Drivetrain
Engine Size
Mercedes Benz 280 engine sizes: 2.8L 30%, 2.7L 25%, 2.8L 14%, 2.8L 9%, 2.8L 3%.
Imported From
Mercedes Benz 280 imported from: Germany 67%, Not Known 25%, United Kingdom 2%, Japan 2%, United States 2%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Mercedes Benz 280 vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Mercedes Benz 280 NZ arrival timeline: 2020: 2, 2021: 3, 2022: 4, 2023: 2, 2025: 2.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Mercedes Benz 280 regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 69, CHRISTCHURCH: 16, HAMILTON: 6, NEW PLYMOUTH: 6, WHANGAREI: 5.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mercedes Benz 280 are there in New Zealand?
There are 187 Mercedes Benz 280 vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1966 to 2005.
What body type is the Mercedes Benz 280?
The Mercedes Benz 280 is primarily classified as a saloon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: convertible, sports car, station wagon. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Mercedes Benz 280 cars imported or NZ-new?
67% of Mercedes Benz 280 vehicles in New Zealand originated from Germany. A mix of NZ-new and imported vehicles make up the fleet. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.