The Aston Martin M278 is a 5,980 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. Developed by Mercedes — AMG and adapted for Aston Martin use, it features DOHC, 32 — valve architecture with high — pressure direct injection and variable valve timing. Delivering up to 430 kW (585 PS) and 900 Nm of torque, it enables high — performance grand touring with strong mid — range punch and refined throttle response.
Fitted to the Rapide S and DB9 GT, the M278 was engi…
All M278 engines comply with Euro 6b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543), with full certification for UK and EU markets.
The Aston Martin M278 is a 5,980 cc twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2012–2017). It combines Mercedes-AMG M278 architecture with Aston Martin-specific tuning, featuring direct injection and variable valve timing. Designed to meet Euro 6b, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 98.5 mm | |
Power output | 430 kW (585 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 900 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll, low-inertia (BorgWarner) – hot-V configuration | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (twin-row, duplex chain) | |
Oil type | Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 (Specification AM-SPEC-004) | |
Dry weight | 242 kg |
The Aston Martin M278 was used in the Rapide S and DB9 GT with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific calibrations-aggressive boost mapping in the DB9 GT and refined throttle response in the Rapide S-and from 2015 the facelifted Rapide S adopted updated fuel control software, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M278's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation in early builds, with elevated incidence in track-focused use with frequent high-RPM operation. Internal Aston Martin quality reports from 2016 indicated a notable number of pre-2015 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 60,000 miles, while VCA records show related lean-burn and misfire faults in non-serviced vehicles. Extended service intervals and low-octane fuel increase wear risk, making fuel quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M278 delivers exceptional performance but early models (2012–2014) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump issues if maintenance is delayed. Post-2015 revisions significantly improved durability. With strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 15,000 miles) and use of Mobil 1 FS 0W-40, well-maintained examples can exceed 100,000 miles reliably.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump degradation (especially pre-2015), turbocharger wastegate rattle, coolant leaks from the electric water pump, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and affect long-term ownership costs if not proactively addressed.
The M278 was used in the Rapide S (2012–2017) and DB9 GT (2014–2016) in sedan and grand tourer forms. It is a Mercedes-AMG M278-based engine tuned by Aston Martin. All units meet Euro 6b emissions standards.
Yes. The M278 has strong tuning potential via ECU remapping, typically yielding +50–80 kW. Supporting modifications like intercoolers and exhaust systems allow further gains. However, the Bosch HDEV5 fuel system and turbochargers have limits. Most owners balance performance upgrades with reliability due to engine complexity and value preservation.
Moderate for a twin-turbo V8 GT. In Rapide S form, expect ~15 mpg UK (18.8 L/100km) combined. Highway cruising can achieve ~19 mpg UK, while aggressive driving may drop to 10 mpg UK. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style. Requires 98 RON premium petrol for optimal performance.
Yes. The M278 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Regular inspection of the duplex chain and tensioners per TIS guidelines is essential to prevent costly repairs.
Aston Martin specifies Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 meeting AM-SPEC-004. This high-temperature-stability oil is critical for protecting turbochargers and the fuel system. Change every 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, to maintain engine longevity and prevent wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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