The Aston Martin M157 is a 5,461 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced by Mercedes — AMG and adapted for use in Aston Martin’s DB11 and DBS Superleggera grand tourers. It features a 60° V configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 441 kW (600 PS) at 6,500 rpm and 700 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. This engine was engineered to deliver smooth, linear power delivery with refined acoustic character, aligning with Aston Martin’…
Production years 2017–2020 meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8817).
The Aston Martin M157 is a 5,461 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine (2017–2020) developed for flagship grand tourers. It combines a 60° V layout with DOHC valvetrain and multi-point fuel injection to deliver high-revving performance and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances traditional V12 character with modern emissions control and drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 72.6 mm | |
Power output | 441 kW (600 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 700 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch ME17.8.7) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b (NEDC) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Dual-circuit liquid cooling with electric pump | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Dual-chain (primary and secondary) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin SAE 5W-30 (Specification AMOB-001) | |
Dry weight | 240 kg |
The Aston Martin M157 was used across Aston Martin's DB platform with longitudinal mounting and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific tuning-for increased torque delivery in the DBS Superleggera Grand Tourer-and from 2018 integrates revised ECU calibration per AM-SIB-03-2018, creating interchange limits with pre-2018 variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M157's primary reliability consideration is thermal management of GPFs under sustained high load, with early data indicating potential for coking in short-trip driving. Internal Aston Martin quality reports from 2020 show low field failure rates (<0.8%) across the first three years, while VCA in-service monitoring confirms high compliance with emissions standards. Infrequent high-speed operation and extended idling increase soot accumulation risk, making regular highway driving and proper warm-up critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2017-2020) and UK VCA in-service emissions monitoring (2017-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes. As a modern AMG-derived V12 (2017–2020), the M157 has demonstrated strong reliability in Aston Martin’s internal quality reports, with failure rates below 0.8% over three years. The dual-chain timing and robust valvetrain are durable when maintained with correct oil (AMOB-001 5W-30) and service intervals. The 2018 ECU update improved drivability. Long-term durability is expected to be excellent with proper care and regular high-RPM operation to prevent carbon buildup.
The most documented concerns are GPF regeneration failures due to short journeys, intake runner actuator faults, and throttle body actuator wear. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets have also been noted. These are addressed in Aston Martin service information bulletins with specific diagnostic and repair protocols, including the 2018 ECU update (AM-SIB-03-2018) to improve throttle response and torque delivery.
The M157 is currently fitted to the DB11 (2017–2020) and DBS Superleggera (2018–2020). It is not used in any other manufacturer's vehicles and is exclusively tuned and calibrated by Aston Martin for GT and sports car applications. The engine is produced at Mercedes-AMG’s facility in Affalterbach, Germany, and shipped to Aston Martin for final integration.
Yes, the M157 has moderate tuning potential due to its high-revving naturally aspirated design. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +30–50 kW, while supporting modifications (intake, exhaust, camshafts) enable higher outputs. However, tuning may void warranty and impact emissions compliance. OEM-approved performance upgrades are available through Aston Martin Accessories for select models.
Official NEDC combined consumption is 12.9 L/100 km (~21.9 mpg UK). Real-world figures vary significantly: expect 15–18 L/100 km (~15.7–19.6 mpg UK) in mixed driving, but consumption can exceed 22 L/100 km (~12.8 mpg UK) under hard use. Highway cruising at legal speeds returns approximately 11.0 L/100 km (~25.7 mpg UK). GPF regeneration cycles temporarily increase fuel use.
Yes. The M157 is an interference engine, meaning that if the timing chains fail or jump, the pistons can contact the valves, resulting in severe internal damage. The dual-chain system is designed for the engine's lifespan, but adherence to oil change intervals is critical to prevent chain wear and ensure proper tensioner function. Any timing-related warning should be addressed immediately.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting AMOB-001 specification (equivalent to ACEA A3/B4 and API SN). Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually. Using correct oil ensures optimal performance of the variable valve timing system, piston cooling jets, and valvetrain components. Non-compliant oils may lead to increased wear and GPF contamination.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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