The Mercedes-Benz M111.977 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration, and electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM). Designed for compact and mid-size applications, it delivered 102 kW (139 PS) and 195 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and refinement in everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the W202 C180, W210 E180, and W245 B180, the M111.977 was engineered for urban and suburban use, emphasizing smooth power delivery and low noise levels. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 3 compliance across all production years in regulated markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft lobes, particularly in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 11 10 99, is attributed to inadequate lubrication under high-load conditions. Later production revisions included updated camshaft materials and modified oil gallery design to improve durability.
All production years (1999–2005) comply with Euro 3 emissions standards in regulated markets (EU Directive 98/69/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz M111.977 is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (1999–2005). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth performance and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 102 kW (139 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The M111.977 provides responsive mid-range torque ideal for city and highway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1-compliant oil to prevent camshaft wear. SAE 10W-40 viscosity ensures adequate lubrication for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or high-load operation without proper warm-up can accelerate lobe degradation. The EZM injection system demands clean fuel and regular airflow calibration to maintain idle stability. Engines produced after 2002 feature revised camshaft hardening; pre-2000 units should be inspected for wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 10 99. Three-way catalytic converters require functional oxygen sensors to prevent backpressure and performance loss.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 10 99). Compatible with API SJ/CD standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1999–2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901). Complies with EU Directive 98/69/EC.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants documented.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34715, A35112, SIB 11 10 99
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
EU Directive 98/69/EC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M111.977 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202/W210 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W210 and revised exhaust manifolds in the W245-and from 2002 the facelifted W202 models adopted updated intake runners, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head (Mercedes-Benz TIS A34715). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('11' for M111 series). Pre-2000 models have silver valve covers; post-2000 units use black plastic. Critical differentiation from M111.975: M111.977 includes revised camshaft profile and intake manifold for increased torque. Service parts require VIN verification - camshafts for pre-2000 engines are incompatible with later hardened versions due to metallurgical changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 10 99).
The M111.977's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2001 noted a significant number of pre-2000 engines exhibiting lobe degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show higher-than-average emissions test failures linked to EZM airflow imbalances in older units. Infrequent oil changes and cold starts increase wear risk, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1999-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M111977.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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