Diesel Mercedes-Benz

For this model the register lists two diesel engines to choose from, the Mercedes-Benz OM 457 hLA at 11,967 cc and the OM 470 at 10,700 cc, both with an output between 260 and 265 kW. Available gearboxes are the Voith DIWA 5.0, the ZF Ecomat and the ZF Ecolife. The wheelbase is split into three segments, measuring 5,845 mm, 5,990 mm and 1,600 mm between the three body sections in the standard version, and 5,900 mm, 7,260 mm and 1,600 mm in the extended version.

Buses of this type run mainly on routes with very heavy passenger demand, where a single exceptionally long vehicle offers more capacity than two shorter buses at a tighter interval, while cutting staff and operating costs. The Voith and ZF automatic torque-converter gearboxes are built for constant stop-and-go operation on scheduled routes rather than for high cruising speed.

When buying a used articulated bus of this length, the condition of the two joints linking the three body sections matters, as their seals and bearings see heavy wear. Also relevant is the mileage and maintenance state of the diesel engine, the condition of the torque-converter gearbox and, on a vehicle this size, the state of the braking system across all axles. Spare parts for the engine and gearbox are available through the well-established Mercedes-Benz network and the Voith and ZF supplier networks.