The Mercedes-Benz M104.980 is a 3,199 cc, inline-six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1999. It was engineered as a refined, durable powerplant for mid-to-large executive sedans and coupes. Featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 24-valve head, and sequential multi-point fuel injection (KE-Motronic), it delivered 160 kW (218 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 310 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the W202 C-Class and W210 E-Class platforms, including the 320E and 3.2 variants, the M104.980 was designed for smooth, linear power delivery and long-term durability. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through precise fuel metering and secondary air injection, emphasizing reliability and drivability in both urban and highway conditions.
One documented technical update is the revision of the intake manifold design in 1996, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 01.0349/96. This change improved airflow distribution and reduced hot-start vapor lock issues, enhancing driveability and thermal stability. The update was implemented as a running change across all M104 applications.
All production years (1993–1999) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Mercedes-Benz M104.980 is a 3,199 cc inline-six naturally aspirated engine engineered for executive sedans and coupes (1993–1999). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions requirements, it prioritizes mechanical durability and driving refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,199 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.5 mm × 86.6 mm | |
| Power output | 160 kW (218 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (KE-Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts (double-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60 MB 229.3 | |
| Dry weight | 189 kg |
The DOHC 24-valve design provides smooth high-RPM power delivery but requires periodic valve clearance checks and throttle body synchronization. SAE 10W-60 MB 229.3 oil is essential for high-temperature protection and bearing longevity. The duplex timing chain system is robust but inspection is recommended beyond 200,000 km. The 1996 intake manifold revision (SIB 01.0349/96) improves hot-start reliability 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/5681).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A104-600, A104-702, SIB 01.0349/96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M104.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202 and W210 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the W202 and revised exhaust manifolds in the W210-and from 1996 incorporated updated intake plenum design per engineering directive, 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). Pre-1996 models have silver valve covers; post-1996 units use black-painted covers. Critical differentiation from M104.941: M104.980 has lower compression ratio (10.0:1 vs 10.5:1) and reduced power output. Service parts require chassis number verification—intake manifolds for pre-1996 models are incompatible with post-revision units due to updated plenum design (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0349/96).
The M104.980's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear under sustained operation, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mercedes-Benz service data from 1998 indicated timing chain guide degradation in approximately 25% of high-mileage units, while UK DVSA MoT records show oil leaks as a frequent cause of engine bay contamination in classic W202s. Extended high-load operation and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making adherence to 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 M104980.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ 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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