The Mercedes — Benz M 113.960 is a 4,966 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2002. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with multi — point fuel injection (KE — Jetronic) and was engineered for high — performance luxury sedans and coupes. Delivering 235 kW (320 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 480 Nm of torque, its 10.0:1 compression ratio enables strong, linear power delivery ideal for grand touring.
Fitted to the W220 S — Class and C215 CL — Class…
Production years 1999–2002 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894).
The Mercedes-Benz M 113.960 is a 4,966 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for flagship luxury sedans and coupes (1999–2002). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with KE-Jetronic electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-output performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances power with reliability for premium driving applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,966 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 480 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | KE-Jetronic multi-point fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven, front-mounted | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CD | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 113.960 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the C215 and revised exhaust routing in the W220-and from 2001 the facelifted W220 models adopted enhanced emissions hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 113.960's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2002 noted a significant number of pre-2001 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA records indicate a notable share of emissions failures linked to catalytic converter degradation. Extended oil intervals and use of non-specification oils increase wear risk, making oil quality and adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1999-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2010). 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 M 113.960 is a robust V8 with dependable performance, but early models (1999-2000) are prone to camshaft lobe wear if maintenance is deferred. Later revisions (post-2001) with updated oilways are significantly more durable. Regular oil changes with correct specification oil (10W-40 API SL/CD) and adherence to service intervals are essential for long-term reliability.
The primary issues are camshaft lobe wear (especially in pre-2001 engines), fuel injector clogging, and catalytic converter failures. Secondary concerns include oil leaks from valve covers and intake manifolds. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and technical workshops.
This 5.0L DOHC petrol engine was used in select flagship luxury models. It powered the W220 S 500 from 1999 to 2002 and the C215 CL 500 from 1999 to 2002. It was not used in other model lines or by partner manufacturers.
Limited tuning potential exists. Performance gains are typically achieved through throttle body modifications or intake/exhaust upgrades, though these deviate from OEM design. ECU remapping is uncommon due to the simplicity of the KE-Jetronic system. The engine's low-RPM nature limits high-end power extraction, making significant gains impractical.
Moderate for its era. In a W220 S 500, typical consumption is ~14.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.2 L/100km (highway), or about 19 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style, but expect 17–21 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a well-maintained M 113.960.
Yes. The M 113 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain tensioner and guides is critical, especially on high-mileage engines.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CD standards. Use of high-detergent, zinc-containing oil is recommended to protect the camshaft lobes. Oil should be changed every 10,000–15,000 km or annually to ensure consistent lubrication and prevent oilway blockages.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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