The Aston Martin M279 is a 5,980 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2014. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 48 — valve architecture, and Bosch ME17.8 engine management, delivering 420 kW (571 PS) and 630 Nm of torque. This engine was derived from the Mercedes — Benz M279 platform, modified for longitudinal mounting and acoustic tuning in Aston Martin grand tourers.
Fitted to the DB9 and Rapide S, the M279 was engineered for refined…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Aston Martin M279 is a 5,980 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine adapted from the Mercedes-Benz M279 platform (2012–2014). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with Bosch ME17.8 engine management to deliver smooth, high-capacity power and acoustic refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5, it balances grand touring comfort with high-performance capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.5 mm | |
Power output | 420 kW (571 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 630 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME17.8 port and direct injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin Longlife-12 (SAE 5W-50) | |
Dry weight | 249 kg |
The Aston Martin M279 was used across Aston Martin's DB and Rapide platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the DB9 and tuned exhaust manifolds in the Rapide S—but no structural changes. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins and ETK parts catalogues.
The M279's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup in low-speed urban use, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2016 noted a moderate share of pre-2013 units showing reduced airflow by 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate a low but growing number of emissions-related failures in city-driven DB9 models. Short trips and infrequent high-RPM operation increase deposit formation, making oil quality and driving pattern management critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2012–2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2024). 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 M279 is a robust naturally aspirated V12 with strong build quality. No widespread reliability issues have been reported, though pre-2013 models may develop intake carbon buildup if used primarily for short trips. Regular maintenance, use of RON 95+ fuel, and adherence to 12,000 km oil changes with OEM-specified oil ensure long-term durability.
The most documented issues are intake valve carbon buildup, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Coolant leaks from the water pump have been noted in high-mileage units. These are addressed in Aston Martin service information bulletins and field engineering updates.
The M279 powers the DB9 (2012–2014) and Rapide S (2012–2014). It is derived from the Mercedes-Benz M279 but modified for Aston Martin applications. No non-Aston Martin applications exist. All models are Euro 5 compliant.
Limited tuning potential exists via ECU remap, typically yielding +20–30 kW on stage 1. Due to its naturally aspirated design, gains are modest compared to turbo engines. Supporting mods like exhaust and intake upgrades offer marginal benefits. Over-tuning risks valve train stress and is not recommended without internal reinforcement.
In the DB9, combined consumption is ~15.2 L/100km (18.6 mpg UK), with city driving reaching ~19.0 L/100km (15.0 mpg). Highway efficiency improves to ~11.8 L/100km (23.9 mpg). Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style. Expect 15–20 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions.
Yes. The M279 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner per service schedule is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 5W-50 synthetic oil meeting Aston Martin Longlife-12 standards. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or 12 months. Using correct oil ensures proper high-RPM lubrication and reduces intake carbon formation in this port+direct injected engine.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
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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)
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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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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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