The Mercedes-Benz M113.961 is a 4,266 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2006. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and Bosch Motronic ME 2.1 electronic fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 410 Nm of torque, with a focus on smooth, high-revving performance for luxury sedans and coupes.
Fitted to the W220 S-Class and C215 CL-Class models, including the S430 and CL430, the M113.961 was engineered for refined grand touring with effortless power delivery. Its emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 3 standards in domestic markets. The engine's compact V8 layout and longitudinal mounting made it ideal for rear-wheel-drive platforms.
One documented concern is premature camshaft and follower wear, particularly under sustained high-load operation with extended oil intervals. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 00, affected early production units and was addressed via revised camshaft metallurgy and improved oil pump calibration. Later builds (post-2003) demonstrated enhanced durability with reduced wear rates.
Production years 2000–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; specific certification varies by market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.961 is a 4,266 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for full-size luxury models (2000–2006). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with Bosch Motronic ME 2.1 sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances refinement with mechanical reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,266 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 72.6 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 2.1 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (DOHC actuation) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 / 5W-40 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The M113.961 provides smooth V8 refinement ideal for grand touring but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1 specification oil to prevent camshaft wear. SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 oils meeting MB 229.1 are recommended due to the flat-tappet camshaft design requiring anti-wear additives. Extended idling and aggressive driving should be minimized to reduce stress on early-build camshafts. The Bosch Motronic system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks and sensor faults, which can affect idle stability. Engines built before 2003 should have camshafts inspected per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 00; later units feature improved metallurgy. The three-way catalytic converter must remain intact for emissions compliance in regulated markets.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 00). High-ZDDP oils recommended for flat-tappet cam protection.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7894). No Euro 4+ equivalency.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output dependent on fuel octane rating (95 RON minimum).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A47312, A47710, SIB 07 05 00
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7894)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M113.961 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the C215 and compact intake routing in the W220-and from 2006 the facelifted W221 models adopted the M273 engine family, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A47804). The 9th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M113 series). Pre-2003 engines have silver valve covers with Bosch badges; post-2003 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M113.960: M113.961 features a higher compression ratio (10.0:1 vs 9.7:1) and revised camshaft profile. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts and lifters for engines before 06/2003 are incompatible with later units due to material upgrades (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 00).
The M113.961's primary reliability risk is camshaft and follower wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2004 noted a significant number of pre-2003 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data links mechanical wear to improper oil selection in preserved examples. Sustained high-load operation and extended oil intervals increase cam and lifter stress, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2000-2006) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (1995-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113961.
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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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