According to EPC, there was three different versions of air cleaner assemblies for the 280E. The US spec 280E was only available up to 81. If you could PM your VIN, I could tell if the one I have will be a direct fit for your car. My parts car is an 81 US spec.

__________________
Cars:
1993 400E
1993 300TE Wagon
1985 300D Turbodiesel w/ 688,000 Miles On Original Eng/Trans
1979 300SD
1977 Euro 6.9
1967 230S IMA Universal Wagon
100 Or So Parts Cars

You Cannot Change your Future Without Disturbing Your Present

It Looks A Whole Lot More Like It Did Today Than It Did Yesterday?