The Mercedes-Benz M113.940 is a 4,243 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM). Designed for high-performance luxury applications, it delivered 218 kW (296 PS) and 410 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and refinement in flagship sedans and coupes.
Fitted to models such as the W210 E420, W220 S420, and C215 CL420, the M113.940 was engineered for balanced driving dynamics, emphasizing linear power delivery and cruising comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 2 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 13 01 96, 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 (1996–2001) comply with Euro 2 emissions standards in regulated markets (EU Directive 94/12/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.940 is a 4,243 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for executive and flagship models (1996–2001). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth performance and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances responsiveness with long-term reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,243 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 218 kW (296 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point fuel injection (EZM) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| 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 | 198 kg |
The M113.940 provides strong mid-range torque ideal for relaxed 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 1998 feature revised camshaft hardening; pre-1997 units should be inspected for wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 13 01 96. 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 13 01 96). Compatible with API SJ/CD standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Complies with EU Directive 94/12/EC.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants documented.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34719, A35116, SIB 13 01 96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EU Directive 94/12/EC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M113.940 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W210/W220 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W220 and revised exhaust manifolds in the C215-and from 1998 the facelifted W210 models adopted updated intake runners, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the cylinder head (Mercedes-Benz TIS A34719). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('13' for M113 series). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers; post-1998 units use black plastic. Critical differentiation from M113.942: M113.940 includes revised camshaft profile and intake manifold for increased torque. Service parts require VIN verification - camshafts for pre-1997 engines are incompatible with later hardened versions due to metallurgical changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 13 01 96).
The M113.940'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 1998 noted a significant number of pre-1997 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 (1996-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113940.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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