The Mercedes-Benz M104.941 is a 3,605 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1999. It was developed by AMG as a high-performance variant of the M104 series for use in Mercedes-Benz's premium performance sedans and coupes. Featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 24-valve head, and individual throttle bodies, it produced 225 kW (306 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 360 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the W202 C-Class and C208 CLK-Class AMG models, the M104.941 was engineered for dynamic driving with high-revving performance and precise throttle response. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through sequential multi-port fuel injection and secondary air injection, emphasizing performance while maintaining drivability and emissions compliance.
One documented technical upgrade is the transition to revised camshaft profiles and valve spring retainers in 1996, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 01.0349/96. These changes improved high-RPM stability and reduced valve float risk, enhancing durability under sustained performance use. The update was implemented as a running change across all AMG applications.
All production years (1993–1999) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Mercedes-Benz M104.941 (AMG 3.6) is a 3,605 cc inline-six naturally aspirated engine engineered for high-performance applications (1993–1999). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with individual throttle bodies to deliver aggressive power delivery and high-RPM capability. Designed for AMG-tuned vehicles, it prioritizes performance and driving engagement while meeting Euro 2 emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,605 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (KE-Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts (double-row, duplex chain) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60 MB 229.3 | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The DOHC 24-valve design and individual throttle bodies provide sharp throttle response and high-RPM power, but require precise valve clearance adjustment and periodic throttle body synchronization. SAE 10W-60 MB 229.3 oil is essential for high-temperature protection and bearing longevity under performance use. The duplex timing chain system is robust but inspection is recommended beyond 200,000 km. Camshaft and valve spring updates from 1996 (SIB 01.0349/96) improve high-RPM stability and should be retrofitted during major services. Cooling system integrity is critical due to high thermal load; use of OEM-spec coolant prevents corrosion in aluminium components.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-60 meeting MB 229.3 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0349/96). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 standards across entire production run (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across premium unleaded fuel meeting EN 228.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A104-600, A104-702, SIB 01.0349/96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M104.941 was used exclusively in Mercedes-Benz's W202 and C208 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific tuning—higher-lift camshafts in the C208 and revised intake plenums in the W202—and from 1996 incorporated updated valve train components per AMG engineering directives, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A104-605). The 6th and 7th VIN digits indicate engine type ('104' for M104 series). AMG-specific features include black-painted valve covers with "AMG" branding and individual throttle bodies. Critical differentiation from M104.981: M104.941 has DOHC 24-valve head and higher compression (10.5:1 vs 9.8:1). Service parts require chassis number verification—camshafts and valve springs from pre-1996 models are incompatible with post-update engines due to revised lift and spring rate (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0349/96).
The M104.941's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear under high-RPM use, with elevated incidence in performance-driven or poorly maintained vehicles. Mercedes-Benz service data from 1998 indicated timing chain guide wear in approximately 30% of high-mileage units, while UK DVSA MoT records show oil leaks as a frequent cause of engine bay contamination in classic AMG models. Extended high-load operation and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making adherence to AMG service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1993-1999) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M104941-AMG36.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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