Mercedes-Benz MB100 (W631)

Mercedes-Benz MB100 W631

Mercedes-Benz MB100D at Arkhangelskoye Estate (Moscow Region, Russia)

The Mercedes-Benz MB100 (W631) is a light commercial van with a cab-over engine. It was produced by Mercedes-Benz España S.A. from 1981 to 1996 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.

II Generation (W631)

In January 1987, the new MB100 (model W631)—an angular and modern van—was unveiled in Mallorca. This marked the first time Spanish vans appeared in Northern Europe, including Germany. For the Spanish market, they were produced with different numbers indicating their payload capacity in tens of kilograms: MB100, 120, 140, and 180.

Most MB100s were equipped with a 2.4-liter OM616 diesel engine producing 72 HP, as in the Mercedes Benz 207D. It was later boosted to 75 HP. Two AMG versions were also produced: the turbocharged OM616 (95 HP) and the OM617 (120-127 HP). Later, a 2.9-liter OM617 engine and four-cylinder gasoline versions were added. The AMG versions differed in headlights, grille, bumpers, side skirts, and Alcantara seats.

The MB100 was sold in Germany from 1987 to 1996. In 1992, it was modernized: a sloping grille was added and the front end was lengthened for improved safety. More powerful versions were called the MB140 and MB180.

In 1996, the MB100 was replaced by the Mercedes-Benz Vito, but continued to be produced for export to Brazil and Argentina until 1997. In Germany, the MB100 was considered slow, with a weak chassis and prone to corrosion.

The Turkish company BMC assembled the MB100 for local use. They later adapted the body for their Levend series of trucks and minibuses, installing it on a rear-wheel drive chassis with a 3-liter BD30 diesel engine from Nissan.