The Mercedes-Benz M113.964 is a 5,439 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2006. 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 225 kW (306 PS) and 460 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and refinement in flagship sedans and coupes.
Fitted to models such as the W211 E55 AMG, W220 S55 AMG, and C215 CL55 AMG, the M113.964 was engineered for dynamic driving dynamics, emphasizing linear power delivery and high-speed stability. 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 13 05 00, 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 (2000–2006) comply with Euro 3 emissions standards in regulated markets (EU Directive 98/69/EC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.964 is a 5,439 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance AMG models (2000–2006). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth performance and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances responsiveness with long-term reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 460 Nm @ 3,000–4,300 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 | 208 kg |
The M113.964 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 2003 feature revised camshaft hardening; pre-2001 units should be inspected for wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 13 05 00. 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 05 00). Compatible with API SJ/CD standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2006 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 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 A34720, A35117, SIB 13 05 00
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
EU Directive 98/69/EC - Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M113.964 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/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 2003 the facelifted W211 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 A34720). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('13' for M113 series). Pre-2003 models have silver valve covers; post-2003 units use black plastic. Critical differentiation from M113.960: M113.964 includes revised camshaft profile and intake manifold for increased torque. Service parts require VIN verification - camshafts for pre-2001 engines are incompatible with later hardened versions due to metallurgical changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 13 05 00).
The M113.964'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 2002 noted a significant number of pre-2001 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 (2000-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2006-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113964.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
