Mercedes-Benz MB100

 👉Mercedes-Benz MB100: A Versatile Light Commercial Van

The Mercedes-Benz MB100 (Model type 631) is a light commercial cabover van manufactured by Mercedes-Benz España S.A. from 1981 to 1996 at their Vitoria-Gasteiz factory in northern Spain. Let’s dive into the details:

1. First Generation (1981)

➡️Origins and Design:

• The first-generation MB100 arrived in September 1980.
• It was initially available in two weight ratings: the MB100 and the heavier-duty MB130.
• Mercedes-Benz España S.A. acquired the Vitoria factory from Industrias del Motor S.A. (IMOSA), which had previously produced the DKW F1000 L van there.
• The F1000 L was an evolution of the DKW Schnellaster, but with a Mercedes-Benz diesel engine instead of the original DKW two-stroke petrol engine.
• The MB100-series emerged after further facelifts, incorporating elements of Fissore’s original trapezoidal design for Auto Union.

➡️Available Body Styles:

• Cargo van
• Passenger van (with more windows)
• Pickup truck

➡️Powertrain:

• The MB100 and MB90 (introduced in 1985) were powered by the 2.0-liter OM615 diesel four-cylinder engine, producing 58 PS (43 kW).
• The heavier MB130, MB140, MB150, and MB180 models received the larger 2.4-liter OM616 engine with 72 PS (53 kW).

➡️Limited Export:

• The first MB100-series was not exported in significant numbers.

2. Second Generation (1987)

• The second-generation MB100 (W631) underwent a facelift and continued production until 1996.
• It was also known as the Mercedes-Benz Cityliner in Finland.

3. Legacy and Impact

• The MB100 left its mark as a versatile workhorse, serving various purposes from cargo transport to passenger transportation.
• Its reliability and practical design contributed to its enduring popularity.

For more details, you can explore resources like Wikipedia and Wikicars. If you ever spot an MB100 on the road, appreciate its historical significance as a pioneer in the light commercial van segment! 🚚✨